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What Happens After 18? Care That Grows With Your Child

transition from pediatric care

At The Village Doctor, we support the transition from pediatric care with compassion and continuity. In a recent discussion with a friend who was surprised to learn we care for patients in their early 20s, I was reminded that, truly, one of the more unique advantages of our practice model is the flexibility to continue caring for our patients into early adulthood. Whether it’s supporting a college student through their first year away from home or helping young adults manage their health as they gain independence, we’re here for them every step of the way during this crucial period of development. Having been here for 10 years now, I have watched newborns graduate from elementary school and have cared for graduate students whom I met as middle schoolers. From first colds to first crushes, I feel privileged to be on these physical and emotional health journeys with the patients and their family members. My goal is for my patients to always view me as an accessible and trusted adult for both the exciting times and for those moments that are a bit more challenging as well. 

After explaining this to the friend, the natural follow-up question was of course, “but what happens when they do age out?” which led me to describe yet another advantage of our model: that we care for people of all ages under the same roof and thus have the ability to care for the entire family. Once our “kids” are ready to move on from their pediatrician, we can help them move “just across the hall” to an internist. This creates a sense of continuity that’s truly hard to replicate.  We develop deep, long-term relationships with the families we serve. That trust leads to better communication, greater comfort during visits, and more proactive healthcare. With insight into the full picture of your family’s health, we can anticipate needs, support healthy habits, and guide everyone—young and grown—through life’s transitions with confidence.

At The Village Doctor, care doesn’t stop at a certain age or stage—it evolves as your family does. 

Read Also: Get Your Teenager (and Yourself) to Bed!

Jackie Phillips, MD, June, 2025

Take the first step towards improving your child’s health with pediatric integrative medicine. Call The Village Doctor at (650) 851-4747 or Contact us to learn more about the practice.