A Pediatrician's Practical Guide for Navigating Transition to Adulthood with Autistic Youth and Their Caregivers

Primary care pediatric clinicians have an important role in supporting youth and their caregivers through the transition to adulthood. Particularly for autistic patients, transition planning is crucial to improved patient outcomes. Transition out of primary pediatric care can be divided into stages. Outcomes are often better for autistic people who are allowed to gradually take on responsibility for their care in the supportive environment of pediatric care. It is important for primary care physician/practitioner (PCPs) to educate themselves, their patients, and their patient's parents/caregivers about these changes long before they occur to help for a smoother entry into adolescence.