DRAFT: Transition from neonatal to paediatric care

More babies survive after neonatal intensive care following preterm births and other serious medical conditions than previously, leading to increasing numbers of children living with lifelong healthcare needs.

Transition is wider than the transfer of clinical care; it is a relational and emotional experience for families and healthcare professionals, and it may be difficult to navigate. Continuity of high-quality holistic care depends on effective communication of clinical and other relevant information between teams using a family integrated care model with shared decision making throughout. 

This framework for practice aims to describe principles for safe, effective and personalised transition of care of babies from neonatal to paediatric services; this includes holistic support of their complex health and care needs and their families’ psychosocial welfare. 

We welcome your comments on this DRAFT document ahead of a final version being published later this year.

Consultation closes: 18 November.

Submit comments