Transition from child to adult care in an outpatient clinic for adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis: An inductive qualitative study

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate experiences and needs in the transition from child to adult care in an outpatient clinic from the perspective of adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and their parents focusing on which aspects in the transition could ease the process. Design: A qualitative design with an inductive approach. Methods: Inductive content analysis was used to analyse individual interviews with three parents and three adolescents from a rheumatology clinic in Denmark. Results: Three descriptive categories emerged: “Information during transition,” “Personalized care” and “A change of roles.” The comparative analysis of the categories revealed two explanatory themes: “To move from something known to something unknown” and “To develop and change.” We found that preparation for transition, information of organisational and procedural changes when entering adult care, continuity and relationships with health professionals characterised by trust as well as involvement of adolescents and parents will ease the process of transition.