The provision of support services for young adults with physical and mental handicaps

It has been recognised for many years that the amount of health care received by young adults with physical and mental handicaps rapidly declines after they leave the paediatric services. However, little is known about their specific health needs, or how these needs may be best met by the statutory services. This study indicates a considerable degree of unmet need and points to a failure by the Health Service to maintain a continuity of health care for these young people. A formal policy is called for in which multidisciplinary Teams for Adults with Handicaps are set up at district level, to provide a clinical, support, and coordination service for all adults with disabilities.