Transition to Adult Care in Type 1 Diabetes

Study Summary

Successful transition to an adult diabetes clinic is an essential part of both clinical and psychosocial care for emerging adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Pediatric patients are generally very well supported by their parents, significant others, and multidisciplinary clinical care teams, however, these support networks tend to change once patients reach adulthood and are required to transition to a more independent clinical care model with their adult care providers. This change can often be an overwhelming adjustment with a potential impact on patient's clinical and psychosocial outcomes. As part of the proposed mixed methods study, in Phase 1, the investigators will develop online questionnaires for primary stakeholders in the transition process to improve understanding of their needs, expectations, and experiences around transition. Based on findings from Phase 1, up to 30 individuals from each of the six groups will be interviewed to discuss their responses and better understand their needs around the transition process (Phase 2). Subsequently, findings from the qualitative analyses of the semi-structured interviews will inform the preparation of recommendations that may help facilitate a successful transition for the various stakeholder groups (Phase 3).