What are the questions I should ask while transitioning from pediatric to adult doctors?

Where would you (referring to your doctor) suggest that I go for my future care? What specialist(s) should I continue to see?
When it comes time for me to transition from a pediatric doctor to an adult doctor, what are the steps that I need to take in order to be successful?
When should my last appointment be with you (referring to your doctor)?
Will you send my medical records to my new doctor(s)?
Will I still be able to have access to my patient portal (and for how long) to view my medical records? Can I also get a digital or paper copy of my medical records?

Where would you (referring to your doctor) suggest that I go for my future care? What specialist(s) should I continue to see?

It can be difficult to transition on your own as not all doctors take every insurance plan and some practices only take a certain number of Medicaid patients. Also, you may need a referral to transfer to any new doctor and not all family care physicians have the connections to get you into some clinics. Ask for guidance as your doctor is a wealth of knowledge with regard to what options are available and best for you.

When it comes time for me to transition from a pediatric doctor to an adult doctor, what are the steps that I need to take in order to be successful?

You are most likely not the first patient a doctor has had to transition from their pediatric care on to adult healthcare. Asking this question of your current pediatric doctor may give you some guidance while transitioning to make the process a little easier and less stressful for you. If your doctor does not know the steps themself, they may know who the best person is to give you the guidance you need.

When should my last appointment be with you (referring to your doctor)?

This is a good question to ask of your pediatric doctor to ensure that you do not age out of their care before you can schedule your last appointment. You may meet with a specialist annually and if you do not plan ahead, it may not be possible to schedule that last appointment due to how far in advance appointments must be scheduled. 

Will you send my medical records to my new doctor(s)?

It is so important to make sure that your current medical records are sent to your new doctor(s). This will give your new doctor an overview of your medical history which will give them a better understanding of your case, past care, and how to best care for you from your first visit on. This may even prevent duplicate tests. You will need to give your consent in allowing your records to be given to a new doctor and in asking your doctor to send your records is doing so. 

Will I still be able to have access to my patient portal (and for how long) to view my medical records? Can I also get a digital or paper copy of my medical records?

It is always beneficial for you to have a copy of your entire medical record. In leaving the care of one medical facility, you will not want to lose the opportunity in gaining your medical history with them before it is too late. You could lose access to your patient portal after your last visit and after five to ten years, depending on the medical establishment, they are no longer obligated to keep your records and it may be lost forever.