Children born with congenital heart disease (CHD) require continuous medical attention throughout their lives. A crucial phase in their care journey is the transition from pediatric to adult healthcare services. This transition demands careful planning and execution to ensure uninterrupted medical management. Without proper preparation, young adults with CHD may face disruptions in their care, such as missed appointments or medication gaps, potentially leading to severe complications like arrhythmias, heart failure, infections, stroke, and even increased mortality risk.
Recognizing this critical need, Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego offers a dedicated Transitional Care Program. Our primary goal is to empower each patient with the knowledge and skills necessary to confidently manage their health and navigate the transition from pediatric to adult congenital heart disease care seamlessly. Every patient enrolled in our program benefits from personalized evaluation, comprehensive education, a detailed medical passport, and a tailored care plan designed to meet their unique circumstances.
Our program boasts a multidisciplinary team of experts committed to addressing not only heart-related concerns but also any broader health issues that may arise during this transition period. We understand that transitioning to adult care involves more than just medical appointments; it’s about equipping young adults to take ownership of their health and well-being.
Our comprehensive services are designed to prepare patients for lifelong health management and include:
- In-depth Education on Congenital Heart Condition: We provide thorough education about the specifics of each child’s congenital heart condition, ensuring they and their families understand the importance of consistent, lifelong follow-up care. This knowledge empowers patients to become active participants in their healthcare journey.
- Guidance on Lifestyle Habits and Exercise: Promoting a heart-healthy lifestyle is crucial. Our program offers education and counseling on adopting beneficial lifestyle habits and incorporating appropriate exercise routines into daily life, tailored to individual needs and heart conditions.
- Nutritional Counseling for a Healthy Diet and Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight and diet plays a significant role in managing CHD. We offer education on healthy eating habits and provide support for weight management to optimize cardiovascular health.
- Screening and Support for Anxiety and Depression: We recognize the emotional challenges that can accompany living with CHD and transitioning to adult care. Our program includes screening for anxiety and depression, ensuring access to mental health support when needed.
- Education on Contraception and Pregnancy Risks: For young adults, understanding reproductive health is essential. We provide education on contraceptive options and discuss pregnancy risks associated with congenital heart disease, enabling informed decision-making about family planning.
Meet Our Expert Team
Our Transitional Program is led by a team of highly specialized physicians and healthcare professionals dedicated to congenital heart disease. Their expertise ensures that patients receive the highest quality of care and guidance throughout their transition.
- Jose Alfonso Silva Sepulveda, M.D.: Director of both the Single Ventricle Program and the Transitional Program. Dr. Silva Sepulveda is also an Assistant Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at UC San Diego, bringing academic excellence to patient care.
- Howaida El-Said, M.D., Ph.D.: Director of the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory and Co-director of the Adult Congenital Heart Programs at UC San Diego. Dr. El-Said is a Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at UC San Diego, contributing significantly to both clinical practice and academic advancement in the field.
- James Perry, M.D.: Director of Electrophysiology and Adult Congenital Heart Programs. Dr. Perry is a Professor of Clinical Pediatrics and Affiliate Professor of Bioengineering at UC San Diego, highlighting his expertise in both clinical cardiology and innovative bioengineering approaches.
- Laith Alshawabkeh M.D.: Director of Adult Congenital Heart Programs at UC San Diego and Assistant Professor of Medicine at UC San Diego. Dr. Alshawabkeh’s dual role emphasizes the strong connection between pediatric and adult congenital heart care within our program.
- Akilah Weber, M.D.: Associate Physician in Gynecology at UC San Diego. Dr. Weber provides crucial expertise in gynecological health, particularly relevant for young women with CHD as they transition into adulthood.
In addition to these leading physicians, our multidisciplinary team includes a dedicated coordinating nurse specialist, a neurodevelopmental practitioner, experienced social workers, and registered dietitians. This comprehensive team approach ensures that all aspects of a patient’s health and well-being are addressed during their transitional care journey.
Valuable Resources
To further support our patients and families, we provide access to a curated list of valuable resources:
- Making the move to adult care: https://iheartchange.org: This resource offers guidance and support for young adults transitioning to adult healthcare.
- Congenital heart disease facts: http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/heartdefects/facts.html: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides comprehensive facts and information about congenital heart disease.
- Adult Congenital Heart Association: https://www.achaheart.org: The ACHA is a leading patient advocacy and support organization for adults with congenital heart disease.
Locations
Our Transitional Care Program is conveniently located at:
Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego, Rose Pavilion, 1st Floor South, 3020 Children’s Way, San Diego, CA 92120. Map it
Phone: 858-966-5855
Fax: 858-966-7903
Contact Us
For more detailed information about the Transitional Care Program and other cardiology services offered at Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego, please do not hesitate to contact our Cardiology division directly at 858-966-5855. We are committed to providing exceptional care and support to our patients and families throughout their lifelong journey with congenital heart disease.
