Specialist paediatric home care is still a little-known service, but one of enormous value for families with children who have complex disabilities, rare diseases or chronic conditions requiring ongoing care. Allowing a child to grow up in their family environment, supported by qualified professionals, improves development and reduces the trauma of repeated hospitalisation.
Conditions that benefit from home care
Cerebral palsy, congenital myopathies, cystic fibrosis, rare metabolic diseases and autism spectrum disorders with complex healthcare needs: these are some of the conditions for which paediatric home care makes an irreplaceable contribution. The approach must be highly individualised and respect the child's developmental stages.
The paediatric home care team
The team includes paediatric nurses, paediatric physiotherapists, speech and language therapists, occupational therapists and, when necessary, child neuropsychiatrists. Collaboration with the school and the child's other everyday settings is an integral part of the care plan.
Supporting parents with the burden of care
Parents of children with special needs often experience extreme stress. Skilled home care offers practical respite, training and support, allowing them to regain energy and participate more fully in their child's life.
📚 Scientific evidence
- Esposito G. et al. (2013). Pediatric home care in Italy. Ital J Pediatr, 39:44.
- SINPIA (2021). Linee guida per la presa in carico del bambino con disabilità. Roma.
- OMS (2012). Early childhood development and disability. Geneva.
