Adolescent to Adult Bridge Program (A2B)

CHOC’s Adolescent to Adult Bridge (A2B) Program is dedicated to promoting a culture of transition readiness and implementing adolescent-centered models of care.  We use GotTransition’s Six Core Elements to provide a standard, evidence-driven approach to healthcare transition across the health system.  Our multidisciplinary team of experts includes family nurse practitioners, licensed clinical social worker, clinical psychologist, public health educator, case management, quality improvement, and program management.  Most patients will receive transition support from their primary and specialty care doctors, but some patients with complex needs may be eligible to be seen in the A2B Clinic.

What to Expect During Your Transition to Adult Care

• Preparing for adult healthcare is important whether you visit the doctor often or once a year.
• Starting at age 12, part of your annual doctor’s visit will focus on your health knowledge and skills.
• You will practice speaking for yourself and being active in your appointment by meeting alone with your medical team.
• Your team will help you set goals and plan for important issues such as insurance and getting ready for work or college.
• At 18, you will become a legal adult and will choose who has access to your health information. Parents and guardians will not be able to talk to your doctor or insurance plan without signed consent from you.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact your CHOC provider.

A2B Clinic Details

The A2B Clinic partners with patients and their families who have complex health needs and need additional support as they transition from pediatric to adult care providers.  The A2B team works collaboratively with your doctors and does not replace your regular visits.  Our clinic is dedicated to patients who see multiple specialists where additional support, planning, and education is needed that exceeds what can be covered in a routine clinic visit.

When seen in the A2B Clinic, patients and families can expect to receive the following services:

• A tailored transition care plan specific to the patient’s needs
• Assistance finding health care providers who treat adults, including mental health specialists
• Resources for increasing independence and self-management skills that will help young adults navigate the adult health care system
• Care coordination between CHOC doctors and the new adult care team
• Assistance with questions regarding health insurance, shared decision-making supports, and government benefits for adults
• Referrals to support networks and community benefits

Find out more on how you can begin the transition with our roadmap. Available in both English and Spanish.

A2B Clinic Eligibility

• Established CHOC patients ages 16 and older
• Sees multiple specialists for two or more chronic health care conditions
• Identified transition barrier or challenge

Our team works closely with your medical team

Our team includes a nurse practitioner, licensed clinical social worker, patient care coordinator, program manager and research and quality improvement manager. The A2B Clinic is a consult service. This means that the A2B team does not change your treatment plan but acts as medical experts on transition. We will provide recommendations and answer your questions about what comes next. Your primary care doctor and specialists will continue to see you regularly to manage your health condition and any medications or treatments you receive. The A2B Clinic works with your medical team to help coordinate your care and plan for the future.