UCSF

The transition to young adulthood is accompanied by increased rates of mortality, engagement in risky health behaviors, and chronic conditions. Primary care visits can present a key opportunity for improving the health of young adults through preventive screening and intervention. In this article, we review (1) opportunities for improving young adult preventive health care as a result of the Affordable Care Act (ACA); (2) preventive service guidelines relevant to the young adult age group; (3) a new young adult tool to facilitate the delivery of preventive services; and (4) lessons learned in implementing adolescent guidelines that can inform young adult preventive care. Copyright © 2013 American Academy of Pediatrics. All rights reserved.