What is Transition?

Transition means change. It means that time of your life when you transition from being a teenager into being a young adult.

Moving toward adulthood is a major transition. It can mean:

• Taking on new challenges
• Doing more things on your own
• Having more choices
• Gaining a new sense of freedom and independence
• Taking on more responsibility

Transition from youth to adulthood often involves many factors leaving home and managing finances, education, employment and recreation. At the same time, an important part of a transition process is preparing for health care.

As a young individual with PKU you will eventually need adult centered care. Adult health care for PKU means:

• Being seen by adult health care providers in an adult setting.
• Focusing on meeting the health needs that adults have.
• Having a trained health care provider to answer, discuss and counsel you about adult issues and concerns regarding PKU and its treatment.
• Having the opportunity to network with others with PKU of your age.

Your Adult Medical Home

A medical home is not a building, house, or hospital. It is a place where you can get primary care that is accessible, continuous, comprehensive, coordinated, compassionate, and culturally effective.

An initial first visit should include the following:

• Completion of forms about health and insurance
• A conversation with the health care provider about your medical history, health and metabolic disorder
• A physical examination
• A blood test and other routine tests
• Women may have a gynecological examination
• Referrals for further evaluation if needed
• A letter back from your doctor with the results of the examinations and blood levels that also is sent to the previous metabolic doctor
• A date for your next appointment

What do I need to bring with me?

You should have with you:

• A copy of your health records, including blood levels, physical examinations and other relevant information
• Name and address of metabolic physician
• Copies of the "Transition Intake Form", "Health Care Skills Checklist" and "PKU Wallet Card"
  

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