Issues of transition to adult care.

A survey was carried out on adolescents with insulin dependent diabetes mellitus, aged 15 to 18 years, to elicit their views on the process of transfer from paediatric to adult care. The survey provided information on what they expected from a health service during this period of their life, their views on the role of specialist physicians and other health professionals and their preferred age for transfer from a paediatric to an adult service. Young people value continuity of care by a physician whom they trust. They expect confidentiality and privacy, some degree of informality and optimal waiting room conditions when they attend for consultation. Almost all suggested that transfer of care should be after the age of 17 years. An understanding of the views and expectations of young people with a chronic illness such as diabetes should assist those who are responsible for the development of health care. It is recommended that transition services for young people with a chronic illness be developed at those children's and adult hospitals that provide specialist care for them.