A lack of viable transportation options often confounds the vocational, independent living, and social goals of youth with special health care needs. Disability awareness and sensitivity in American society is low. The youth's cultural heritage is not always considered in the planning of services and transitions, which may affect efficacy. The highly rural and culturally diverse nature of New Mexico can cause challenges to service delivery, coordination, and continuity. Youth with special health care needs may require, but may not receive, a comprehensive array of coordinated services.
Continuity of care is a tremendous challenge for many reasons, systemic and individual.
There is a need for standardized terminology in describing conditions and behaviors both between youth and adult systems and among agencies. There is a need for cross-training among agencies serving children and adults to ensure service continuity for youth with special health care needs. A lifespan, interdisciplinary, person-centered approach to transition is needed. Children's Medical Services has the opportunity to help youth with special health care needs in New Mexico realize richer, more rewarding adult lives. Developing a series of transition tools workshops for parents and youth.