Addressing Over-Medicalization in Children with Medical Complexity

AbstractPurpose of ReviewChildren with medical complexity (CMC) are at risk for over-medicalization and medical child abuse. Their multiple diagnoses, medical complexities, and functional limitations require providers to partner with parents in their care. Even in the context of shared decision-making, over-medicalization and medical child abuse can occur.Recent FindingsWe define over-medicalization and medical child abuse as related to the care of CMC, present strategies to prevent, identify, and address shared provider-parent decision-making, and review ethical principles that can guide care decisions.SummaryComplex pediatric care programs designed specifically for CMC promote care of the highest value for CMC through longitudinal documentation of comprehensive assessments and detailed care plans. Goal-directed care —focused on the child’s function and quality of life and the family’s values and preferences—offers opportunities to prevent, identify, and manage over-medicalization and medical child abuse.
Source: Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports - Category: Rehabilitation Source Type: research