Taking part in healthcare is not one all-or-nothing independence test. It includes many separate skills: describing a concern, asking for clarification, knowing important health information, using communication supports and deciding who should help. Autistic and ADHD teens may build these skills on different timelines. Support can remain available while the young person gains a stronger voice.
Choose one skill for the next appointment
Ask the teen what they want to try. A first goal might be showing a written question, confirming their preferred name, describing one symptom, asking the clinician to slow down or saying which support person they want present. Got Transition’s readiness tools encourage families and clinicians to identify skills together rather than expecting them to appear at a certain birthday.
Prepare information in an accessible format
Create a short health summary with the teen: current medicines if any, allergies, communication method, sensory needs, key professionals and what helps during appointments. Use plain language, pictures or a phone note according to the teen’s preference. Store private information securely and share only what is needed.
Before the visit, write no more than three questions. Preview likely steps and agree on a signal for “I need a pause” or “Please explain that differently.” Bring AAC, headphones or another familiar support. Do not speak over the teen; offer help, wait for processing and let them redirect the question to you when they choose.
Build responsibility gradually
- Let the teen check in while you stand beside them.
- Practise finding the clinic number before expecting them to call.
- Review an appointment summary together and mark the next step.
- Discuss privacy and supported decision-making in language they understand.
The American Academy of Pediatrics describes healthcare transition as a gradual process, with growing responsibility and continued family support when wanted or needed. Independence does not mean managing every form, medicine or decision alone.
AutDHD’s one-page care passport can help organise essential information, while the waiting-room plan can reduce appointment-day load.
Trusted sources
This is general information shared for parent awareness, not medical advice. Every child is different — please confirm decisions with your child’s doctor or a suitably qualified professional.