51. Integrated Care for Children

This chapter delves into the necessity of integrated care for children, emphasizing the shift from acute to chronic conditions and the unique health needs of children. It explores the goals of integrated care, such as improving health outcomes and ensuring the right care at the right time. The text discusses various models of integrated care, including the Medical Home model in the USA, the Sure Start program in the UK, and the Assistenza Domiciliare Pediatrica in Italy. It also highlights the importance of population health management and the role of data-driven planning in improving health services. The chapter concludes with a call for further research and policy translation to realize the full potential of integrated care for children. Readers will gain insights into the challenges and solutions in implementing integrated care, the effectiveness of different models, and the global perspective on this critical healthcare issue.