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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Insufficient infrastructure and processes in the healthcare system create significant stress for patients transitioning from pediatric to adult care. Young adults with complex medical needs face particularly high barriers, often requiring additional resources and support throughout this challenging transition.

The differences between pediatric and adult healthcare systems exacerbate these barriers. There is often limited coordination between pediatric and adult care providers, and few healthcare systems employ dedicated staff to streamline transitions. This lack of support prolongs the transition process and increases the burden on patients and families. Moreover, complex cases demand extended time commitments, yet insurance reimbursement often fails to adequately cover the necessary procedures. Compounding this issue, there is a shortage of adult physicians and specialists who are knowledgeable about the needs of patients with conditions that originated in childhood.

To address these challenges, policy action is essential. New policies that support coordinated care and resource allocation can bring us closer to eliminating the “care cliff” for young adults with complex healthcare needs as they transition to the adult healthcare system.