Transitioning from child to adult healthcare services is a critical period for young people with cerebral palsy (CP). A recent study by Solanke et al. (2018) highlights significant unmet health needs during this transition, particularly in areas such as pain management, bone or joint problems, and speech therapy. Understanding and addressing these needs can greatly improve outcomes for these young individuals.
Key Findings from the Research
The study involved 106 young people with CP and their parents, examining their reported needs over a three-year period. The researchers identified high levels of unmet needs in the following areas:
- Pain management
- Bone or joint problems
- Speech therapy
Interestingly, the study found that unmet needs tended to increase over time, irrespective of whether the young person had transferred from child services. This suggests that unmet needs at the start of the transition cannot solely be attributed to poor transitional healthcare.
Implications for Practitioners
For practitioners working with young people with CP, it is crucial to adopt a data-driven approach to address these unmet needs. Here are some recommendations based on the study's findings:
- Comprehensive Assessment: Regularly assess the young person's health needs, particularly in areas prone to unmet needs like pain management and speech therapy.
- Coordination of Services: Ensure close liaison between child and adult services to provide continuous and coordinated care.
- Specialist Involvement: Involve specialists in CP to address complex health needs and provide a clinical overview, similar to the role of a pediatrician in child services.
- Education and Training: Equip young people and their families with the knowledge and skills needed to manage their health needs independently as they transition to adult services.
Encouraging Further Research
While this study provides valuable insights, there is a need for further research to explore effective models of transitional care and to refine the measurement of unmet health needs. Practitioners are encouraged to stay informed about the latest research and to contribute to ongoing studies to improve outcomes for young people with CP.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Are the health needs of young people with cerebral palsy met during transition from child to adult health care?
