Transition Planning for Chronic Illnesses in the Time of COVID-19

William R Hunt; Rachel W Linnemann; Brandi Middour-Oxler

doi:10.1177/2374373520978875

Transition Planning for Chronic Illnesses in the Time of COVID-19

J Patient Exp. 2020 Dec;7(6):848-850. doi: 10.1177/2374373520978875. Epub 2020 Dec 3.

Authors

William R Hunt^{1

2}, Rachel W Linnemann^{2

3}, Brandi Middour-Oxler^{2

3}

Affiliations

¹ Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
² Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and Emory University Cystic Fibrosis Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
³ Division of Pulmonary, Allergy/Immunology, Cystic Fibrosis and Sleep, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.

Abstract

Transition from pediatric to adult care for those with chronic illnesses must have special considerations during the COVID-19 pandemic. The SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus has significantly disrupted social, economic, and health care practices globally. Young adults with special health care needs are at increased risk for poor outcomes during this unprecedented time. We have found that heightened anxiety, health care service disruption, and other logistical complications surrounding the new virus may further confound health care transitions. Increased communication and collaboration with young adults is necessary to provide patient-centered care and ensure they successfully cross the transition chasm.

Keywords: COVID-19; chronic disease; cystic fibrosis; telemedicine; transition to adult care; transitions of care; young adult.