Transitioning from a Pediatrician to an Adult-Only Doctor: Why Internists Are Often the Better Choice

The journey from childhood to adulthood involves many significant changes, one of which is the transition from a pediatrician to an adult-only doctor. This change is crucial for maintaining optimal health as one’s medical needs evolve. Choosing the right type of adult healthcare provider can significantly impact long-term well-being. While primary care practices are a common choice, considering an internist might be more beneficial. Here, we explore when and why to make this transition and the advantages of choosing an internist.

When to Transition

Age Considerations:
– Early Adulthood: Most pediatricians recommend transitioning to an adult doctor between the ages of 18 and 21. This period often coincides with significant life changes, such as starting college or a new job, making it a practical time to establish care with a new physician.
– Developmental Readiness: Some young adults may be ready to transition earlier or later, depending on their maturity level and health needs. It’s important to consider both the patient’s comfort and the pediatrician’s advice.

Health Needs:
– Chronic Conditions: If a young adult has a chronic condition that was managed by a pediatrician, transitioning to an adult specialist with experience in managing such conditions in adults is crucial.
– Preventive Care: Adult preventive care, such as screenings for high blood pressure, cholesterol, and certain cancers, becomes more relevant as one ages, necessitating a healthcare provider experienced in adult medicine.

Why Internists Are Often Preferred

Specialized Training:
– Focus on Adults: Internists, or internal medicine doctors, specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases in adults. Their training is exclusively centered on adult medicine, making them experts in managing the unique health concerns of adults.
– Complex Cases: Internists are trained to handle complex medical conditions and multi-system diseases, making them well-suited for patients with multiple health issues.

Comprehensive Care:
– Holistic Approach: Internists provide comprehensive care that encompasses both primary and specialized care. They can manage a wide range of conditions, reducing the need for multiple specialists.
– Continuity of Care: An internist can serve as a primary care provider and coordinate with specialists as needed, ensuring seamless care and consistent monitoring of all health aspects.

Preventive and Long-Term Health:
– Preventive Focus: Internists emphasize preventive care and lifestyle modifications to reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases. They provide tailored advice and screenings appropriate for the patient’s age and risk factors.
– Long-Term Relationships: Building a long-term relationship with an internist can enhance continuity of care, allowing the doctor to understand the patient’s medical history, preferences, and needs more deeply.

Transitioning from a pediatrician to an adult-only doctor is a critical step in maintaining health throughout adulthood. While primary care practices are a common choice, considering an internist offers several advantages, particularly for those with complex or chronic conditions. Internists’ specialized training in adult medicine, comprehensive approach to care, and focus on preventive health make them an excellent choice for young adults transitioning to adult healthcare. Making this transition thoughtfully can ensure ongoing, high-quality care and support a healthy future.

Alpharetta and Cumming Internal Medicine would be honored to have you as a valued patient. To schedule an appointment with one of our Board-Certified Internists, call us at (770) 475-2377 or conveniently request an appointment via our ‘Contact Us’ form on our homepage.