Questionnaire survey regarding pediatric to adult transitional medical care targeting members of Japanese Society of Neurology

The Special Committee on Measures for Transition from Pediatric to Adult Health Care surveyed approximately 9,000 members of the Japanese Society of Neurology regarding transitional care. Only 744 responses were returned, less than 10% of the total number of members contacted. More than half answered that they generally provide treatment for adult patients with a childhood-onset disease, with many noting as reasons that the related diseases and ages in such cases are targeted by neurology specialists, and that other adult medical departments are not equipped to treat them. As for reasons given for not treating such patients, lack of knowledge related to developmental disorders, lack of support system, and difficulties with communication were noted. There were no noticeable differences in the responses of providing treatment for adult patients with a childhood-onset disease in association with the affiliated regional association or branch. These results indicate that resolution of issues related to neurologist unfamiliarity with pediatric neurological disorders and lack of relevant information are important issues to be addressed for establishment of a smooth medical care transition.