Aim To assess patient satisfaction with the transitional care service in type 1 diabetes.

Methods An anonymous questionnaire was retrospectively sent to 37 patients who had attended the diabetic transitional care clinics over a period of 2 years from 2009- 2011. The patients were aged 16-19 years at the time of the survey. The questionnaire addressed various aspects of the service including the information given before transition, clinic environment, education provided and the communication with and within the diabetic team.

Results 11 out of 37 (30%) patients responded to the questionnaire. The median age was 18 years. 91% felt that sufficient notice was given for the transitional care service. 55% felt well informed about what to expect from the service. 64% were made aware of the professionals the patient would meet when attending the clinic. 27% felt that written information would be helpful before the clinic.

Only 36% felt that the appointment times were convenient. 73% felt that they had the opportunity to ask questions and express concerns during the appointment. 60% were educated about diabetes and alcohol whilst only 13% received information about safe sex and contraception. 29-36% received information about diabetes and university education, leaving home and driving licence. 45% felt that the clinic environment was suitable for a young adult.

64% felt that they had the opportunity to meet the staff they had expected to see. 73% said that the diabetic team communicated well with each other about the patients needs. 73% felt the team was easily approachable. 83% felt that it was easy to contact the diabetic team out side the clinic hours.

60% felt that the service was helpful in transition to adult care. 80% felt confident to transfer to adult care after attending the clinics.

Conclusion Transitional care service has been shown to be beneficial in ensuring smooth transition of adolescents to adult service and our data supports this. This survey has highlighted that adequate education in various important aspects of adolescence needs to be addressed in these clinics.