Addressing education and employment outcomes in the provision of healthcare for young people with physical long-term conditions: A systematic review and mixed methods synthesis.

Abstract

To identify and synthesise the experiences and benefits of addressing vocational issues in the provision of healthcare for young people (YP) with long-term conditions (LTCs). We searched 10 bibliographic databases. Restrictions were applied on publication date (1996-2020) and language (English). Two reviewers independently screened records against eligibility criteria. Articles reporting relevant qualitative and/or quantitative research were included. Quality appraisal was undertaken following study selection. Qualitative data were synthesised thematically, and quantitative data narratively. A cross-study synthesis integrated qualitative and quantitative findings. 43 articles were included. Thematic synthesis of qualitative studies (n = 23) resulted in seven recommendations for intervention (psychological support; information/signposting; skills training; career advice; healthcare-school/workplace collaboration; social support; flexible/responsive care). The narrative synthesis summarised results of 17 interventions (n = 20 quantitative studies). The cross-study synthesis mapped interventions against recommendations. Transitional care was the intervention type that most comprehensively met our proposed recommendations. Evidence from YP perspectives highlights that vocational development is an important area to address in healthcare provision. Robust intervention studies in this area are lacking. Our evidence-based recommendations for intervention can support health professionals to better address vocational issues/outcomes. With minimal adaptations, transitional care interventions would be particularly well suited to deliver this.