Transition Age Health Care

What does “growing up” mean when it comes to health care? Quite a lot, actually! As age 18 approaches, there are 2 big questions teenagers should think about:

  1. Do you need to start seeing a new kind of provider?
  2. Are you ready to take responsibility for your health care?

Keep reading to learn more and see what changes are in store! Have your parent/guardian take a look, too. We have some helpful tips for them.

Do you need to start seeing a new kind of provider?

Young people and adults have different health care needs. This is why people may need to see different types of providers at different ages. Young people sometimes get their health care from a pediatrician, a type of provider who specializes in treating children. Most pediatricians only see patients until they reach a certain age—usually between 18 and 21. After this, it’s time to switch to a provider who understands the health care needs of adults. This type of provider is often called a family practice provider or an internal medicine provider.

Your pediatrician may be able to help you find a provider who treats adults. PrimeWest Health can help, too. Just call Member Services at 1-866-431-0801 (toll free). TTY users call 1-800-627-3529 or 711 (toll free). If you already see a family practice or internal medicine provider, there is no need to switch!

Tips for parents/guardians

  • Make sure your teenager is aware that he/she may need to find a new provider.
  • Have a conversation about why seeing the right kind of provider is important.
  • Answer any questions you can about transitioning care, and talk to your teen’s health care provider about questions you can’t answer. You can also call PrimeWest Health Member Services.

Are you ready to take responsibility for your health care?

When you turn 18, you are legally considered an adult. This means that you—not your parents or guardians—are responsible for your health care. You can ask for help and advice, but you will be the one making decisions. If you want anyone else to have access to your health information, you will have to give that person formal permission. The same is true if you want your provider to talk to anyone else about your health.

It’s a really good idea to start paying attention to your medical care before age 18. Learn how to make an appointment, know where important documents are kept, and ask about your health history. Learn what medications you take and why. And, learn how to refill a prescription.

Tips for parents/guardians

  • Let your teenager know that he/she is now responsible for making health care decisions, but you will still be there to provide support.
  • Have a conversation about your teenager’s health history and the medication he/she takes. Write down your family’s health history.
  • Talk about whether your teenager wants you to be able to access his/her health information. If so, make sure your teen knows he/she will need to make an official request for that to happen.

A few more things to keep in mind

  • Keep getting regular health checkups (physicals). You may outgrow your pediatrician, but you’ll never outgrow the need to practice good health habits!
  • Your benefit set may change with age. You can find out more by looking in your Member Handbook or you can call Member Services for more information.

Resources

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DHS_Approved_04/26/2019
Updated_04/30/2019