Respiratory care action plan draft: consultation report

Question 6: Transition from child and young people services to adult services

Commitment 6 – We will work with key partners to develop policies and procedures for a good transition from children and young people services to adult services for asthma

A total of 113 people responded to this question, with 38 responses being expanded to include comments. Of those, a majority (98) agreed with the commitment on improving the transition from child and young people services to adult services, with a minority (2) disagreeing or not knowing (13).  6 people did not answer the question. To further breakdown the figures of those who responded:

• NHS (boards and organisations) 10
• Third sector organisations 13
• Private sector companies 7
• General public individuals 83

Overall, the general themes that came out of the responses to this question were: communication between care settings; data and technology, and patient centred care. As seen in the number of 'yes' responses there was wide agreement about the importance of an improved transition from young people services to adult services, with several respondents noting that this is an area that requires improvement.

Breakdown of the most common themes:

Communication between care settings

Several respondents were of the view that clear communication between the relevant services is vital to ensuring a smooth transfer, limiting delay or missing information which could adversely affect people living with respiratory conditions. This is particularly important, it was noted, for patients with other more complex considerations. 

Data and technology

Of the respondents that commented on this issue, it was noted that the use of data could play a key role in improving the transition and management of the condition. At a clinical level, there were responses requesting that paper notes be phased out and a move towards a paperless system to assist with and speed up the transition by preventing delay or loss of files. 

For the benefit of people living with respiratory conditions, there were recommendations from respondents regarding the use of technology such as NHS 'Near Me' video consulting, which may be particularly beneficial for those living in remote areas of the country.

Patient centred care

Respondents emphasised the need for appropriate conversations to prepare children and their families for the changes they may experience in the move to adult services. 

Comments stressed the topic of physical and mental well-being prior to transition, and the importance of promoting on-going self-management into adulthood. It was noted that self-management in adults can decline once they have left children's services, and that more regular check-ups with Healthcare Professionals may help. It was suggested that community pharmacy could also play an important role in liaising with GPs to support young adults managing their asthma. 

Some respondents suggested there was inadequate consideration given to the effect of puberty on a young person's physical and mental health, before and during the transition to adult services. 

General

Some respondents were of the view that the commitment was not clear enough and needed strengthened, asking for further clarification on what a good transition would look like. Other responses called for the commitment to be extended to all respiratory conditions.

A chart showing phrases from the Q6 responses. General (about the commitment) had 17 mentions; data had 4.

A chart showing phrases from the Q6 responses. General (about the commitment) had 17 mentions; data had 4.