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Concurrent Abstract Submission

Transitions to adult healthcare services/systems

Growing up with a disability is no piece of cake: The critical gaps in healthcare for young adults with disabilities

Tuesday, April 15, 2025
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM EDT
Location: Governor General 2
This workshop will focus on the challenges and solutions for transitioning young adults with disabilities from pediatric to adult healthcare. Presenters, including advocates, clinicians, and individuals with lived experiences, will highlight critical gaps in the current system. Despite efforts to improve transitions, young adults continue to face barriers such as fragmented care, limited resources, and increased medical costs. A 2024 survey of 802 young adults with disabilities and caregivers in Ontario revealed that 60% of young adults feel the adult healthcare system does not meet their needs, with many facing challenges navigating the system. The findings emphasize the need for holistic, coordinated care and providers trained to address the unique needs of these individuals.

Learning Objectives:

  • Upon completion, participants will be able to describe critical and representative perspectives on paediatric to adult medical transitions, including advocacy, paediatric and adult clinicians and lived experiences.
  • Upon completion, participants will be able to describe critical gaps and solutions required for seamless and supported medical transitions from paediatric to adulthood healthcare system.
  • Upon completion, participants will be able to define a collective vision of a future whereby all young adults receive the support they need in their healthcare journey across systems.