Conclusions
Transitioning from pediatric to adult care is a challenge for young
adults with type 1 diabetes, with many falling out of care or facing
adverse health outcomes. This study described the transition process for
young adults with type 1 diabetes in NL through the lens of both
pediatric and adult providers. In a province with a relatively small
number of patients with diabetes who transition out of pediatric care
annually, we found different approaches to managing the transition into
adult care throughout the province. This variation reflected staff and
resource availability at different centres, but providers felt that it
may not necessarily have a negative impact on patient outcomes despite
that we found an increase rate of diabetes related hospitalization in
the period after they transition. The interviews also offered
suggestions to improve the transition process including structured
transition programs and increased support for primary care physicians.
Educational resources could also be shared across centres. These
recommendations should be considered by other diabetes centers outside
of the province.