Dr. de Ferris’ research focus is on healthcare transitions and increasing autonomy for children with chronic kidney disease as they move from childhood to adulthood. She is Professor, UNC School of Medicine, Dept. of Pediatrics and Director, UNC Transition and Self-Management Program. Her clinical practice is in pediatric nephrology.
Dr. de Ferris is also the Associate Director, Medical Student Research Program, UNC School of Medicine. Her transition work is internationally known and has helped to create systems that address crucial gaps to assure health so chronically ill children can become successful adults. She is the founder and Director of the UNC STARx self-management/transition program that provides education and intervention in an individualized, culturally, linguistically and age-appropriate fashion. She considers success with her patients as the best payment for her work.
