Transitioning to adult endocrinologists
When to start the transition
- •Begin discussing transition around age 16-17
- •Complete transition by age 18-21 depending on readiness
- •Consider timing around major life changes (college, moving out)
Finding an adult endocrinologist
- •Ask your pediatric endo for recommendations
- •Check if they specialize in or have experience with young adults with T1D
- •Verify insurance coverage and office location
- •Schedule a "meet and greet" appointment before officially transferring care
Making the switch smoother
- •Request complete medical records from pediatric office
- •Bring list of current medications, devices, and supplies
- •Discuss your goals and concerns openly at first visit
Insurance and healthcare
Understanding your insurance
- •Learn the difference between copays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket maximums
- •Know which doctors and pharmacies are in-network
- •Understand prescription coverage and prior authorization processes
- •Keep copies of insurance cards and policy information
Aging out of parent's insurance
- •You can stay on parent's insurance until age 26
- •Explore options: employer insurance, marketplace plans, Medicaid
- •Pre-existing conditions must be covered under ACA
- •Don't let insurance coverage lapse - avoid gaps in care
Managing prescriptions
- •Learn to refill prescriptions before running out
- •Set up automatic refills when possible
- •Know how to handle prior authorizations and appeals
- •Research manufacturer copay assistance programs
College preparation with T1D
Campus resources
- •Register with disability services for accommodations
- •Connect with campus health center and locate nearest hospital
- •Find local endocrinologist or diabetes clinic
- •Research campus dining options and carb counting resources
Roommate communication
- •Educate roommates about T1D symptoms and emergency response
- •Show them where you keep glucagon and glucose tabs
- •Discuss how they can help during lows or highs
- •Keep refrigerator space for insulin if needed
Building self-advocacy skills
Taking ownership of your care
- •Schedule and attend appointments independently
- •Ask questions and voice concerns with healthcare team
- •Track your own data and identify patterns
- •Set personal diabetes management goals
Advocating in school & work
- •Know your rights under ADA and Section 504
- •Request accommodations confidently (exam time, breaks, etc.)
- •Educate professors/supervisors about your needs
- •Stand up for yourself if accommodations are denied
Emergency preparedness for independence
Building your emergency kit
- •Multiple glucagon kits in different locations
- •Extra supplies (pump supplies, CGM sensors, insulin pens)
- •Medical ID bracelet or necklace
- •Emergency contact list and medical information card
Creating your support network
- •Identify local friends who can help in emergencies
- •Share CGM data with trusted contacts
- •Know when to call 911 vs. handling situation yourself
- •Keep emergency numbers programmed in phone