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A fork in the road: decision time for behavioral pediatrics
K J Kelleher1, S H Scholle, H M Feldman
1University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pennsylvania, USA. kelleherkj@msx.upmc.edu
Summary
Managed care growth challenges developmental-behavioral pediatrics. Rethinking practice models and advocating for integration with primary care or mental health networks is crucial for children with special needs.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Healthcare Management
- Behavioral Health
Background:
- Managed care, particularly managed behavioral healthcare organizations (MBHOs), is rapidly expanding.
- This growth risks fragmenting care for children with medical and behavioral issues and diminishing the role of developmental-behavioral pediatrics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the impact of managed care on developmental-behavioral pediatrics.
- To identify barriers faced by developmental-behavioral pediatricians within managed care systems.
- To propose alternative practice models and recommendations for the field.
Main Methods:
- Review of the structure and operations of MBHOs.
- Identification of challenges and barriers to service provision.
- Description of potential alternative practice models.
Main Results:
- Managed care is likely to lead to the integration of developmental-behavioral pediatrics with primary care or specialty mental health networks.
- Barriers exist for developmental-behavioral pediatricians in navigating managed care structures.
Conclusions:
- Developmental-behavioral pediatrics must adapt to managed care trends by integrating into primary care or mental health networks.
- Proactive discussion, advocacy, and strategic planning are essential for developmental-behavioral pediatricians to maintain their role in caring for children with special needs.