The Importance of Integrated Care for Individuals With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) commonly have complex healthcare challenges. An IDD is a condition that is a result of an abnormality beginning during a person's neurodevelopment, often occurring in utero but also possibly occurring up to age 18. Any injury or maldevelopment of the nervous system can often result in lifelong health complications in this population, including those involving intellect, language, motor skills, vision, hearing, swallowing, behavior, autism, seizures, digestion, and many other areas. Individuals with IDDs often have multiple health complications, and their care is usually provided by a number of different healthcare providers, including a primary care provider, various healthcare specialists who focus on their particular areas of concern, an oral health provider, and a behavioral specialist(s), if needed. The American Academy of Developmental Medicine and Dentistry appreciates that integrated care is essential to providing care to those with IDDs. The name of the organization itself includes both medical and dental aspects, and the organization's guiding principles include the concepts of integrated care, person-centered and family-centered approaches, and a deep appreciation for the importance of values and inclusion in a community. Continuing to provide education and training to healthcare practitioners is a key to improving health outcomes for individuals with IDDs. Additionally, focusing on the importance of integrated care will ultimately lead to a reduction in health disparities and improve access to quality healthcare services.