Managing the Child with Cerebral Palsy Who Has Medical Complexity

Abstract

Children with cerebral palsy often have medical complexity, defined as requiring multiple specialists, frequently requiring medical technology, and incurring significant family caregiver demands and costs. Care for the child with cerebral palsy who has medical complexity encompasses social determinants of health and psychosocial aspects of care. Addressing medical complexity in the primary care setting is best supported in the medical home through a team-based approach with practice transformation, family-centered care, care coordination, clinical guidelines, and payment support. Frameworks of care and practical tips presented in this chapter aim to enable the primary care physician to collaborate with families in managing the health of children at highest risk for adverse outcomes.