Disabil Health J
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Comparative Study
Youth and parents' experiences of a new inter-agency transition model for spina bifida compared to youth who did not take part in the model.
Young adults with spina bifida are underserved in health care and are at risk as they transition to adult health care. A pediatric rehabilitation hospital and an adult community health center partnered to help address this gap. Although some research has explored general transition experiences of youth with disabilities, little is known about their experiences in a transition model that involves an inter-agency partnership, continuous, age-appropriate, and client-centered care. ⋯ Our findings show the new transition model for youth with spina bifida can help enhance participants' transition experiences and preparation for adulthood. However, the model needs further development to address the varied abilities and support needs of youth with spina bifida.