Pediatric family-centered rehabilitation

Family-centered rehabilitation programs are derived from a philosophy of heath care delivery known as family-centered care. The principles of family-centered care are presented with clinical examples. Its origins are reviewed, and the 10-year process of implementation of family-centered care practice and policy at a children's rehabilitation center are described. Profound changes in behavior are required of the health care professionals as meaningful collaboration with families develops. Key elements of a family-centered rehabilitation program include meaningful participation by families in medical decision making and an institutional culture flexible enough to respond to the ongoing collaboration between families and practitioners.