The research article "After the Visit: An Overview of Government and Community Programs Supporting Children with Medical Complexity" by Olson and Hall (2017) provides a comprehensive review of the various support systems available for children with medical complexity (CMC) in the United States. This blog will highlight key takeaways from the research and suggest practical ways for practitioners to implement these findings in their practice.
Key Government and Community Programs
Understanding the array of available programs is essential for practitioners aiming to provide holistic care to CMC. The research outlines several crucial programs:
- Early Intervention (EI): Under Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), EI programs offer developmental services to children with disabilities from birth until their third birthday. Practitioners should refer families to EI and provide necessary medical information to facilitate the evaluation process.
- Public School System: Post-EI, children transition to the public school system for educational support under Part B of IDEA and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Practitioners should guide families through the evaluation process and assist in creating Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or 504 plans.
- Financial Support Programs: Programs like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and state Title V programs offer financial assistance to families of CMC. Practitioners can help families understand eligibility criteria and application processes.
- Respite Care: Respite care services provide temporary relief for families. Practitioners should inform families about available respite care options and assist in accessing these services.
- Support Groups: Involvement in support groups can significantly improve the mental and emotional well-being of caregivers. Practitioners should encourage families to connect with relevant support networks.
Implementing Research Findings in Practice
Practitioners can improve outcomes for CMC by integrating the following strategies into their practice:
- Proactive Referrals: Regularly refer families to EI and public school evaluations. Provide detailed medical information to support these evaluations.
- Educational Advocacy: Educate families about their child's educational rights and assist them in navigating the IEP or 504 plan processes.
- Financial Guidance: Inform families about financial support programs and help them understand the application procedures.
- Respite Care Coordination: Help families identify and access respite care services to alleviate caregiver stress.
- Support Group Facilitation: Encourage families to join support groups and provide resources to help them find appropriate networks.
Encouraging Further Research
While the article provides a robust overview, it is crucial for practitioners to stay updated on policy changes and emerging research. Engaging in continuous education and participating in professional networks can enhance practitioners' ability to support CMC effectively.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: After the Visit: An Overview of Government and Community Programs Supporting Children with Medical Complexity.
