Abstract: Adolescents with chronic illness present unique challenges to healthcare providers, educators and rehabilitation professionals. As they approach adulthood, their needs place them at increased risk for health, emotional, social and vocational problems, but they often confront barriers in accessing coordinated transition services. The purpose of this article is to: (1) explore the overlooked needs of this population; and (2) recommend strategies for addressing those needs through an interdisciplinary approach to transition planning that promotes the autonomy of the adolescent.
