A validated conceptual map of health transition research for young people with intellectual disabilities

Aim: Evidence from research on health transition for young people with intellectual disabilities may poorly match the generic conceptual framework for continuity of care developed by Freeman et al. The study reviewed, appraised and mapped existing health transition research onto the conceptual continuity of care framework to identify the utilisation of existing conceptual frameworks in health transition research. Method: We conducted a scoping study of English language studies on health transitions and used a mapping technique to match research evidence onto the continuity of care framework. We then organised a series of discussion groups (n=3) with an expert panel, utilising nominal group technique, to validate the findings of the mapping exercise. Results: Existing health transition research is poorly matched onto the conceptual framework of continuity of care. This reflects a lack of conceptual and theoretical underpinning of existing health transition research and a poor utilisation of previously funded conceptual research. Conclusions: Health transition research should build on conceptual frameworks such as continuity of care and future research calls should encourage empirical research informed by existing conceptual frameworks.