Experiences of UK-based adult transition services for Interstitial Lung
Disease in childhood: “There’s a lot less cushioning”
Abstract
Interstitial Lung Disease in childhood (chILD) is rare and no longer
solely a childhood issue. Many are surviving into adult life. Therefore,
many affected with chILD need to transition from paediatric to adult
healthcare services. Transition is a significant life event that has the
potential to impact on physical and mental health outcomes and across
Europe this is a haphazard process for chILD. This qualitative study
explores how young people and parents in the United Kingdom experienced
transition from paediatric to adult healthcare services for chILD.
Participants (n = 7) were recruited from chILD patient organisations and
online communities. We focused on the experience of transition and
whether there were any information packs or support provided for the
transition. The data was analysed by constructivist grounded theory. The
study presents a lived experience of transition with themes of lack of
transition preparation and planning, challenges of learning how to adapt
to adult services and a changing healthcare scene. Due to the complexity
of ChILD, parents discussed their need to remain, in part, as an
advocate for the young person. Respondents provided recommendations for
how transition could be improved along with tips for young people who
are new to the transition process, which include educating oneself about
the condition and learning medical terminology, being open if there are
issues and reaching out for support.