The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) believes that all children, particularly children with special health care needs, should have a medical home where health care services are accessible, family-centered, continuous, comprehensive, coordinated, compassionate, and culturally competent.
At Wayland Pediatrics, we provide a medical home for all children, but help support children with chronic or complex medical conditions with coordination and ongoing support. We monitor children with asthma and behavioral health diagnoses multiple times per year to assure ongoing control. We can help to connect families with community resources and support services.
How do I know if my child has a “special health care need?”
Children and youth with special health care needs are recognized to be those from birth to 21 years old who:
- have a chronic physical, developmental, behavioral or emotional condition expected to last 12 months or more, and
- need health and related services more than most children,
- may receive these services from various public and private agencies and providers in the areas of health, education, and social services,
- and, as a result of complex conditions and many different providers, may need help in coordinating this care.
This includes children and youth with chronic medical conditions or genetic disorders such as diabetes, sickle cell anemia, childhood cancers and heart conditions; developmental disabilities such as mental retardation, hearing and vision impairments and autism spectrum disorders; as well as emotional or behavioral health needs including ADHD and mental health conditions; and physical disabilities such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, or muscular dystrophy.