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Tuesday, October 8, 2024

When to Stop Seeing a Pediatrician ?

As children age, the question of when to stop seeing a pediatrician may arise. Parents and guardians are responsible for providing quality care and making sure their children are growing and developing properly. Therefore, it is important to know when you should transition away from regular visits with your pediatrician.

Making the Transition

While there is no set age as to when a child should switch from a pediatrician to an adult healthcare provider, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that it typically happens between ages 18-21. It is important to note that this time frame can vary depending on individual needs and preferences. In addition, some states have different laws regarding the age at which a person can be seen by an adult medical provider.

It is best to discuss the transition plan with your pediatrician ahead of time so that any concerns or questions can be addressed. Your pediatrician will also be able to provide recommendations for adult healthcare providers in your area, if needed. Additionally, they may suggest additional tests or screenings prior to the transition to ensure that your child’s health is monitored until they are completely transitioned over to an adult provider.

Things to Consider

When deciding when to switch to an adult healthcare provider, there are several things to consider :

  • Age : The age at which a child transitions to an adult healthcare provider varies from person to person and depends on individual needs and preferences. However, the AAP recommends making the switch somewhere between ages 18-21.
  • State Laws : Some states have laws that regulate when a person can be seen by an adult medical provider. Make sure that you check the laws in your state before making the transition.
  • Recommendations : Speak to your pediatrician ahead of time to get recommendations for adult healthcare providers in your area and ask any questions or address any concerns that you have.
  • Additional Tests : Your pediatrician may suggest additional tests or screenings prior to the transition in order to ensure that your child’s health is properly monitored in the interim.

Preparing for the Transition

In addition to discussing the transition with your pediatrician, it is important to make sure that your child is prepared for the change. This includes teaching them about how to manage their own health, such as scheduling appointments, understanding insurance policies and medications, and knowing how to advocate for their own care. Additionally, it can be helpful to start visiting potential adult healthcare providers prior to the transition in order to ensure that the new provider is a good fit for your family.

The Bottom Line

Deciding when to switch from a pediatrician to an adult healthcare provider is an important decision. While there is no set age for when to make the transition, it typically occurs between ages 18-21. Speak to your pediatrician ahead of time to get recommendations for adult healthcare providers in your area, and make sure that your child is adequately prepared for the transition.

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