One in five families has a child with special health care needs-but medical and human service professionals often don't get the training they need to provide long-term, integrated care for these children. Filling a critical gap in professional education, this ground-breaking textbook and training tool presents a comprehensive, interdisciplinary framework for delivering effective health care to children with disabilities and chronic illnesses. Going far beyond the traditional model of treating and reducing symptoms, renowned paediatrician Heidi Feldman gives professionals a big-picture blueprint for improving the lives of children with disabilities and helping them participate fully in family and community life. PREPARE HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS TO Focus on three key priorities that improve children's lives-inclusion in community life, contribution to society, and health and well-being Understand and resolve the challenges of delivering health care to children with disabilities Collaborate on comprehensive, integrated care plans with parents and other professionals Implement family- and person-centred care at the clinical, organisational, and policy levels Address system fragmentation and work toward coordinated care Engage in system and policy reform to ensure better clinical and functional outcomes for children WITH SPECIAL COMMENTARIES IN EVERY CHAPTER: To illustrate key points, Dr. Feldman relates powerful stories from her 30+ years of experience working with children with disabilities and their families. Readers will get invaluable insights on successful programmes, best practices, family concerns and experiences, professional preparation, and more.
