New Delhi, Aug. 26 -- In a first, the ministry of health and family welfare is working on a policy to guide the movement of young people with chronic illnesses such as thalassemia and diabetes from paediatric care to adult healthcare systems.

The policy, named "Transition of Care for Youth with Special Health Care Needs," is aimed at creating a planned and purposeful process to address the medical, psychosocial, educational and vocational needs of these young adults, according to the document prepared by the Directorate General of Health Services. Mint has reviewed a copy of the document.

The policy is crucial. Previously, there was no formal guidance for such a transition, often leading to a sudden shift that could cause anxiety for pa...