PT  - JOURNAL ARTICLE
AU  - Cheryl Barnabe
AU  - Kelsey Chomistek
AU  - Nadia Luca
AU  - Glen Hazlewood
AU  - Claire E.H.  Barber
AU  - Amanda Steiman
AU  - Elizabeth Stringer
TI  - National Priorities for High Quality Rheumatology Transition Care for Youth in Canada
AID  - 10.3899/jrheum.200790
DP  - 2020 Oct 15
TA  - The Journal of Rheumatology
PG  - jrheum.200790
4099  - http://www.jrheum.org/content/early/2020/10/13/jrheum.200790.short
4100  - http://www.jrheum.org/content/early/2020/10/13/jrheum.200790.full
AB  - Objective Conduct a needs assessment and environmental scan to support optimal pediatric to adult rheumatology care transitions in Canada. Methods This initiative involved three phases: a survey-based needs assessment of adult and pediatric rheumatologist members of the Canadian Rheumatology Association to identify perceived infrastructure, educational needs and national resources to support transition care; an environmental scan, via semi-structured interviews, of existing rheumatology transition service care models and challenges in care delivery; and a focus group to prioritize national activities. Results The needs assessment survey was completed by 65 members, with 66% agreeing a national approach to transition care was needed. Semi-structured interviews reflecting activities at 9 transition care sites were conducted, and identified candidate models of care, including direct transfer, progressive transfer and shared care models. Challenges and needs experienced in these care models reflected resource and infrastructure needs, poor availability of mechanisms to support parents and youth through the transition process, and the need for evaluation to support quality improvement. The focus group and prioritization activity was attended by 26 participants, with each having the ability to cast 3 votes. Supporting patient/family education for transition to adult rheumatology health care system” (n=17 votes) and “Advocacy activities to access allied health support, including funding” (n=10 votes) emerged as the top priorities for national initiatives. Conclusion We have identified priorities in education and advocacy for advancing transition care in Canada that require participation of pediatric and adult rheumatology providers, patients and arthritis stakeholders in the interest of advancing transition care outcomes.