Involving the AYA, family and other HCP
Collaboration and engagement of all stakeholders are essential for a successful and smooth transition process. Transition can be complex and more difficult in patients with multiple allergic diseases. It is important that the family are involved in supporting AYA self-management, thereby encouraging independence. During the transition process, HCPs may consider helping AYA (with their parents/caregivers) to understand their allergy and asthma, possible complications, treatment rationale (including medication name, dosing, possible side effects), effective management strategies and how to recognize higher risk symptoms (Grade D).12,15,16,18,19 Important skills for AYA to learn are how to make appointments, identify when and whom to contact in case of relapse, how to negotiate and understand the transition process and how to access the support available. AYA should ideally be offered portable, accessible information in the form of leaflets, web-pages, or audio for AYA to foster inclusivity and address diverse needs. It may be also helpful for AYA to have their own personal transition plan, developed together with a HCP and written in a form of a ‘roadmap’ towards agreed short and long term goals and desired outcomes for transition. As adolescents are generally characterized by low levels of adherence, HCP may consider monitoring this more closely during the transition process (Grade D).12,14-17 It has been shown that AYA are more likely to follow treatment plans and attend adult service medical appointments when they have a good knowledge of their disease and the reasons for treatment23,24 and good family support.25