Health care transition recommendations for young people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and co-occurring mental health conditions: Stakeholder survey findings

Background

Limited knowledge exists as to the supports and services young people with IDD and co-occurring mental health conditions need to transition to adult-focused health care and adulthood.

Methods

The survey findings presented were part of a larger investigation that explored these service and supports needs obtained from 144 respondents. Data reported for this investigation were obtained from 144 respondents who answered the question, “What do you think would be most helpful to assist young people with IDD and mental health conditions with the transition from child to adult health care (not including mental health care)?"

Qualitative analysis based upon the social-ecological model was undertaken.

Findings

Based on the social-ecological model (SEM), health care transition needs were reported in four of the five SEM domains-Individual, Family, Provider, and Systems Level. The responses were most frequently categorized in the SEM domains in following descending order: Individual, Provider, System and Family.

Conclusion

Implications for research and practice suggest that multi-level approach is needed to address the range of service needs for young adults with IDD and co-occurring mental health conditions.