Oreper, J., Khalid, A., Sheffe, S., Vader, K., Bosma, R., & Mustafa, N. (2021). Defining Successful Transitions from Paediatric to Adult Chronic Pain Care: A Descriptive Qualitative Study of Perspectives of Young Adults Living with Chronic Pain (In Progress)

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Introduction. The transition from paediatric to adult chronic pain care can be stressful for young adults (YAs). Previous research has explored the needs of this population and the barriers they face during this transition. However, YAs’ perspective on successful transitions of their chronic pain care is not yet well understood.

Objectives. To explore how YAs define a successful transition from paediatric to adult chronic pain care, and how YAs would like to be empowered to achieve a successful transition. Methods. A descriptive qualitative design involving semi-structured interviews was used to understand the perspectives of YAs with chronic pain on success in transition. Participants were recruited from a hospital-based adult chronic pain clinic in Toronto, Canada and through social media. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and reviewed for accuracy. Qualitative inductive content analysis was used to analyze the interview data.

Results: Eight YAs with chronic pain were interviewed (all female; median age =19 years). A successful transition was defined as a planned, seamless, and coordinated process that respects YAs’ autonomy and independence, sets clear transitional goals and expectations and involves collaboration between paediatric and adult healthcare providers (HCPs). Recommendations suggested for HCPs to empower YAs included establishing a strong therapeutic alliance, offering accessible resources, and providing skill-building opportunities.

Conclusion. Our study findings demonstrate the need for a purposeful, collaborative, and individualized approach for the successful transition, which addresses the unique needs of YAs across the continuum of care. Our findings will support HCPs and policymakers in implementing and evaluating transition programs.

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