The Organizational and Operational Setup of Pediatric Integrated Complex Case Management

Abstract

PICM shares many of the essential features of adult ICM. There are sufficient differences when working with a pediatric population and their families, however, that a parallel but separate approach is needed with characteristics specifically designed for children/youth. To date, we are aware of no other case management programs, especially created for children/youth, that has assessment and intervention components particularly focused on the integration of physical and behavioral health and the incorporation of social and health system factors impacting health, as are found in PICM. It is our hope that with appropriate training, competent ICM managers with or without pediatric backgrounds will be able to improve outcomes for families with children/youth having early life health complexity. Ultimately improved health during early life development may lead to better health and productivity in adulthood, thus continuing the return on the health system’s investment throughout the lifespan.

“When families are so caught up in trying to take care of their child’s mental health needs, regular healthcare needs—such as vision, weight, blood pressure, allergies—fall to the wayside. When care is integrated, parents only have to go through one door, not multiple doors, to make sure their child is healthy.”

—Sue Abderholden, parent and executive director, NAMI Minnesota