A review and analysis of 43 transition studies published from 1982 through 2003 was conducted. The studies reviewed represent the diverse purposes of international researchers for examining transition issues and questions. Findings of this literature review indicate that transition research is in early stages of development. A number of limitations were associated with these studies, including the lack of theoretical frameworks, the use of valid and reliable instruments, and research designs lacking adequate controls. Future research studies are needed that overcome the design limitations of past investigations.

The body of health care transition (HCT) research is in the early stages of development. One of the major limitations of this developing field of research is the lack of theoretically-directed studies. This research limitation has hindered understanding of the variables contributing to successful HCT. The inadequate understanding of HCT is due largely to the absence of an adequate conceptual model that addresses the complexity and the relationships amongst variables that influence HCT outcomes among adolescents and emerging adults with special health care needs (AEA-SHCN). Existing conceptual models do not sufficiently address the significant interrelationships amongst variables to explain, predict and/or control AEA-SHCN's biopsychosocial HCT outcomes. This article provides a description of a health care transition theoretical model developed by the international and interdisciplinary Health Care Transition Research Consortium (HCTRC) that can be applied for testing in research and serve as a framework for clinical practice and policymaking. The HCTRC model is composed of four domains that are considered integral to the HCT phenomenon: Individual, Family/Social Support, Environment, and the Health Care System. The HCTRC model specifies the variables, processes, and potential mediators and moderators that affect the HCT outcomes.

The period of health care transition (HCT) for adolescents and emerging adults with special health care needs and disabilities involves a complex realignment of the parent–child relationship, including alterations in role responsibilities and decision making. The purpose of this systematic review was to analyze the research designs, methodology, and findings reported in studies of parents during this transition period to provide new insights for research and clinical practice. Results showed that parents were unable to clearly envision what the future held for their children and were not well prepared by the service system to anticipate future prospects. These parents have a myriad of needs that are not yet fully understood, as HCT research is in the early stages of development.