At Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), our Spina Bifida Program cares for patients from birth through age 21. As your child grows, their medical needs change. When the time is right, they will begin receiving care from adult providers instead of pediatric ones. We know this can feel overwhelming, so our team supports you and your child through each step. Our goal is to help your child build the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to care for their health as they move toward adulthood.

We begin these conversations early. Throughout childhood and adolescence, we talk about what your child can learn now that will help them later. This steady, thoughtful approach helps your child gain independence at a pace that feels comfortable and supported.

Our Spina Bifida Pathway to Adult Care Clinic is designed specifically for teens and young adults. It was created in direct response to feedback from families and our clinical team, who shared that they wanted a clearer, more coordinated plan for this phase of care.  

Led by Dr. Michael Cellucci, this clinic supports patients ages 14 to 21. It meets on the first and fourth Tuesdays of the month from 8 a.m. to noon. The clinic helps your child understand their health needs and prepares them for their move into adult care. 

Beginnning at age 14, we start structured planning. Each year, we ask your child to complete the Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire (TRAQ). This simple tool helps us understand what skills your child already has and what areas may need more support. We review their answers with you and create a plan that fits your child’s needs. 

The Pathway to Adult Care Clinic focuses on real-life skills to help your child succeed as they enter adult care. This includes understanding their medical needs, learning how health insurance works, exploring school or work goals, supporting mental health, and building social confidence. These skills help your child take an active role in their health and future. 

A team of experts — including nurses, urologists, social workers, physical therapists and occupational therapists — works closely with your child using simple, age-appropriate steps. We help set personal goals and connect families with adult providers, community resources and supports such as the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR). Our team stays involved so you and your child feel guided, supported and never alone during this important stage.  

As your child moves from ages 14 to 18, we also help you prepare for key milestones, such as your child turning 18. During yearly visits, we talk about what choices are coming, when the move to adult care might happen, and what steps will make it smoother. We also work closely with your child’s primary care provider to be sure their adult care plan meets all their health needs.

We understand that planning for adult care can bring up many emotions. It may feel early, or it may feel like a lot to manage. Please know that our team is here to help guide you, answer your questions, and make the process feel safe and manageable. You and your child never have to navigate this alone.

The Pathway to Adult Care Clinic reflects CHOP’s strong commitment to helping teens and young adults build healthy, independent and meaningful lives beyond pediatric care.

We are happy to answer any questions you may have.

You can visit our resource library anytime to find tools and information to support you at every stage of your child’s journey.