We provide support to new clients with congenital and developmental disabilities, such as spina bifida and hydrocephalus, as they transition from paediatric to adult healthcare services.

Key points

  • The Young Adults Transition Service (YATS) works closely with other speciality clinics within the RMH, other healthcare facilities, and the community
  • We aim to improve the quality of life for young adults with congenital disabilities by providing the resources to manage their ongoing health care needs
  • A specialist wheelchair and seating service is available for patients who qualify and/or access the YATS clinic at the RMH. This provides specialist wheelchair and seating assessments in collaboration with community therapists
  • Care is provided individually from an interdisciplinary approach
  • We accept community referrals
Patients need a referral from their GP or healthcare provider. Access referral information

What we do

Our Young Adults Transition Service (YATS) provides assessment, recommendations for self-management and referrals to appropriate healthcare professionals for young adults.

The Young Adult Transition Service provides:

  • Specialised clinical assessment, intervention and assistance to transition into adult services - for example, mobility assessment and psychosocial support and engagement
  • Regular reviews to monitor health needs
  • Liaison and referral to relevant services or clinics
  • Sexual health counselling and referrals
  • Seating and posture assessment
  • Continence advice
  • Wound and pressure injury risk assessment, prevention and management

Who can use our service

This service is available to young adults aged 18 years and over with congenital and developmental disabilities (such as spina bifida and hydrocephalus) who require assistance with managing their transition into adult medical and community services.

What to expect on your first visit

Your first appointment at YATS will involve seeing both a doctor and the allied health team.

At this visit you will be involved in developing a plan, establishing your personal health care goals, implementing recommendations and monitoring progress.

The service team will arrange for you to see other specialist teams such as the Continence Service, Chronic Wound Service, Pain Management, Spasticity Clinic and the Wheelchair and Seating Clinic, if needed

Who will I see?

At YATS, you may see several health professionals from various disciplines, including:

  • Rehabilitation physician
  • Nurse
  • Physiotherapist
  • Occupational therapist
  • Social worker
  • Orthotists/prosthetics
  • Rehab engineer
  • Allied health assistant

How much does it cost?

There is no charge for this service.

How do I arrange an assessment?

Referrals can be made via the Direct Access Unit. Anyone can refer to the service, including medical practitioners and other healthcare professionals.

All referrals require an accompanying letter from your general practitioner (GP).

For patients
For health professionals

Appointments

For all new appointments, contact the Direct Access Unit on (03) 8387 2333

To cancel or reschedule a booked appointment, contact the Clinical Centre on (03) 8387 2194

Head of service
Sandra Savy
Manager, Subacute Ambulatory Care Services
Jagriti Khoosa
Clinical Coordinator, YATS clinic
Contact us
Young Adults Transition Service
Phone
(03) 8387 2194
Clinical Centre Reception
Phone
(03) 8387 2333
Direct Access Unit
Address
The RMH Royal Park
Ground Level Robert Campbell Wing (Building 17)
34-54 Poplar Rd, Parkville, Victoria
Last updated 15 August 2023