Physical Health in Developing Adolescents

Health Care Transitions

Each young person’s situation is unique, but a well-timed transition from pediatric health care to adult primary health care should occur between ages 18 and 21. Planning for health care transition should begin earlier, around age 12. Support a successful health care transition with Got Transition® resources for youth and young adults, their families, and health care professionals.

Adolescence is a good time for youth to start taking more responsibility for their physical health. They can learn to make healthy food choices, be active, and engage in their own health care. Adolescents can learn how to manage their own health. Parents and caregivers can support this by teaching adolescents about their health and helping them practice skills and problem-solving. The following sections provide a detailed look at adolescent physical health and related resources.

  • Clinical Preventive Services: Learn about the importance of clinical preventive services for adolescents (immunizations, screening tests, and counseling services)and how adolescents can be involved in their own health care.
  • Healthy Behavior: Discover how behaviors like good nutrition, physical activity, and getting enough sleep support health for adolescents into adulthood.
  • Youth with Chronic Conditions and Disabilities: Learn about the health care needs of youth with chronic conditions and disabilities, and supports for these youth and their families.

To learn more about physical changes that occur during adolescence, see Adolescent Development Explained: Physical Development.