The truth is, this transition isn’t just about switching providers. It’s about honoring the journey that’s already happened while building a new foundation for the future. At Sail Healthcare, we believe growing up shouldn’t mean growing apart from the care that matters. It should mean stepping into something even stronger.
Why This Transition Matters
It’s More Than Just a Birthday
Turning 18 might mark adulthood on paper, but that doesn’t mean someone is ready to take on the world of complex care alone. And they shouldn’t have to.
The shift from pediatric to adult respiratory therapy is often filled with emotions: relief, uncertainty, excitement, fear. But most of all, it’s filled with opportunity. Opportunity to become more confident. More informed. More independent.
A strong adult care team doesn’t just fill a gap, it builds a bridge. One that honors everything you’ve already overcome and walks with you toward what’s next.
What Changes with Adult Respiratory Therapy?
1. You Step into the Driver’s Seat
In pediatric care, communication often flows through caregivers. In adult respiratory therapy, the patient becomes the leader of their care. That might mean learning how to schedule appointments, track symptoms, or manage an oxygen tank solo. We’re here to guide, not overwhelm because growth happens one step at a time.
2. Your Equipment Grows With You
As needs change, so does the equipment. You may transition to adult-sized oxygen tanks, portable devices, or upgraded ventilators that offer more flexibility and freedom. The goal is to meet you where you are, and help you go where you want to be.
3. Your Plan Evolves
Adult care isn’t about copying the pediatric plan, it’s about reassessing. New benchmarks, new goals, and a fresh look at how your condition interacts with your lifestyle, body, and long-term health. It’s a chance to reset and rebuild.
Common Challenges (and How We Help)
Leaving Familiar Faces
It’s normal to feel hesitant about stepping away from the care team that’s walked with you for years. At Sail Healthcare, we collaborate directly with pediatric providers so your history doesn’t get lost. You’re not starting over, you’re moving forward.
Facing Insurance Shifts
As patients age out of pediatric coverage, understanding adult insurance can be tricky. Our care coordinators are here to guide you through the process so you don’t lose access to the supplies and therapies you count on.
Learning to Manage Equipment
Taking on more responsibility can be intimidating. That’s why our team offers hands-on training and ongoing support. Whether it’s managing BiPAP settings or changing a suction filter, we help you build confidence, one skill at a time.
How to Prepare for the Transition
Start Conversations Early
Ideally, talk with your care team about the transition by age 16. It gives everyone time to prepare, ask questions, and make thoughtful choices together.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Let teens take on small roles: checking oxygen levels, prepping supplies, calling in refills. Building these skills early creates a smoother transition later.
Get to Know Your New Team
Meeting your adult care team ahead of time can take the fear out of change. We encourage introductions, Q&A sessions, and tours because trust takes time, and we’re here for the long haul
The Sail Healthcare Approach
At Sail, we believe that care should grow with you, not outgrow you. Our adult respiratory therapy team blends medical expertise with heartfelt support. Whether you’re transitioning from the NICU or preparing to live more independently with a chronic condition, we walk beside you, not in front, not behind.
We bring clarity to complex care. And we believe in the power of people because no one should feel like just another chart or case number
Let’s Make the Next Chapter Stronger
The transition from pediatric to adult respiratory care can feel like a big leap. But you don’t have to make it alone. With the right support, this chapter can be one of growth, empowerment, and renewed confidence.Reach out to Sail Healthcare to start the conversation. We’re ready to support your journey—every breath of the way.