Why the Transition to Adult CHD Care Is a High-Risk Period
The transition from pediatric cardiology to adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) care is recognized as one of the highest-risk periods in the lives of patients with congenital heart disease. Young adults with CHD have the highest rates of loss-to-follow-up of any cardiac patient group, often going years without seeing a specialist during a phase of life when new complications — arrhythmias, ventricular dysfunction, pulmonary hypertension, and onset of pregnancy — are increasing in frequency. The 'transition cliff' — the abrupt gap in care that occurs when a teenager ages out of pediatric cardiology without a clear handoff to an adult CHD provider — is a recognized public health challenge in congenital cardiology.
Components of Structured Transition Planning
Effective transition planning begins in adolescence — ideally between ages 12 and 14 — long before the patient is ready to transfer to adult care. Key components include progressive education about the patient's own diagnosis, prior procedures, medications, and follow-up requirements; development of a health passport summarizing the patient's cardiac history in a portable format; graduated independence in healthcare interactions; clear identification of the target adult ACHD provider before departure from pediatric care; a joint transition visit in which the pediatric and adult cardiologists communicate directly; and a warm handoff — not just a referral letter — ensuring the young adult is connected to their new provider before leaving the pediatric system.
Have questions about your care?
Speak directly with our team — no referral needed for most consultations.
Transition to ACHD Care in New York
Congenital Heart Compass Medical PLLC provides transition support for teens and young adults with congenital heart disease across New York State. We work collaboratively with pediatric cardiology practices across the region, accept referrals for transitioning patients, conduct initial ACHD evaluations by telemedicine, and provide structured transition documentation and co-management plans. Patients in Rochester, Buffalo, Syracuse, Albany, and across Upstate and Western New York can access expert adult ACHD follow-up without traveling to a major academic center.
Reviewed by Dr. Pradeepkumar Charla, MD, MBA, FAAP, FACC
Pediatric & Adult Congenital Cardiologist — Congenital Heart Compass Medical PLLC
Last reviewed:
Medical disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified cardiologist for decisions about your congenital heart disease care.