An exam room at a clinic in Flint, Michigan (Jake May/MLive.com/TNS)
Pediatricians across the country are receiving new guidance on how to help adolescents with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families navigate the transition to adulthood.
in a policy statement Published this month in the journal Pediatrics, the American Academy of Pediatrics details the steps doctors should take as children approach age 18, when they will be legally recognized as adults.
Pediatricians should begin discussing the transition to adulthood and what level of assistance children between the ages of 12 and 14 are likely to need. They must work together with patients, their caregivers, and their teachers, always advocating for the least restrictive decision-making environment. according to the orientation.
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While some people with developmental disabilities will be prepared to be completely autonomous in their medical decision-making as adults, others will need help through supported decision-making, guardianship or other means, the pediatrics group said.
“Continuity of supported decision-making, power of attorney (health care proxy), other decision-making options, and guardianship may be considered to support youth at levels that promote autonomy and self-determination in decision-making.” of decisions,” says the policy. the statement says. “Physicians, including pediatricians, play an important role in supporting youth with IDD in this process.”
Pediatricians are encouraged to actively involve their patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities in care decisions, being mindful of their ability to communicate and understand decisions about their care. They should work with youth, their families, legal experts, and other stakeholders to determine the appropriate level of support.
The guidance notes that pediatricians can familiarize themselves with local and state resources to make referrals, as needed, and can reevaluate any decision-making arrangements during annual exams “to align them with the child’s wants, needs, and decision-making abilities.” young over time. “
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