Young Adults Transition Service

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

Interpreters and cultural support

We provide qualified, professional interpreters to help you communicate with us at any time during your stay and at your clinic appointments.

Find out more about interpreters & cultural support

Last updated 15 August 2023