Abstract 12302: Transition Readiness in Teens and Young Adults With Congenital Heart Disease: Can We Make a Difference?

Introduction: Transition is “the process by which adolescents and young adults with chronic childhood illnesses are prepared to take charge of their lives and their health in adulthood”. We previously reported a lack of transition readiness in patients with congenital heart disease. In this follow-up (F/U) study, we examined changes in transition readiness and the relationship to psychosocial quality of life (QOL) and health service utilization. Methods: In a multicenter study, 356 patients (87% of initial cohort), age 14-27 yrs, completed transition readiness and QOL (PedsQL) assessments at routine cardiology F/U approximately 1 year following initial assessment. Results: Median patient age was 19.8 yrs (IQR 17.3-22.3) at median 1.0 yr following initial transition readiness assessment. Average knowledge deficit scores decreased and perceived self-efficacy scores significantly increased at F/U (both p<.0001). Self-management scores increased (p<.0001), but remained low (mean 57.7 overall, 63.1 in ≥ 18yr o...