A survey of Canadian adult rheumatologists’ knowledge, comfort level, and barriers in assessing psychosocial needs of young adults with rheumatic diseases

To assess adult rheumatologists’ comfort level, current practices, and barriers to provision of optimal care in supporting young adults with pediatric-onset rheumatic conditions in Canada. Survey questions were informed by literature review, a needs assessment, and using milestones listed by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada for the entrustable professional activities (EPAs) applicable to care for rheumatology patients transitioning to adult practice. The electronic survey was distributed to adult rheumatology members of the Canadian Rheumatology Association over 4 months. Four hundred and fifty-one rheumatologists received the survey, with a response rate of 15.2%. Most respondents were from Ontario and had been in practice ≥ 10 years. Three quarters reported a lack of training in transition care although the same proportion were interested in learning more about the same. Approximately 40% felt comfortable discussing psychosocial concerns such as gender identity, sexuality, contraception, drug and alcohol use, vaping, and mental health. Despite this, 45–50% reported not discussing vaping or gender identity at all. The most frequently reported barriers to providing transition care were lack of primary care providers, allied health support, and training in caring for this age group. Most adult rheumatologists lack formal training in transition care and view it as a barrier to providing care for this unique patient population. Future educational initiatives for adult rheumatology trainees should include issues pertaining to adolescents and young adults. More research is needed to assess the effectiveness of resources such as transition navigators in ensuring a successful transition process.