The Journal of pediatrics
-
The Journal of pediatrics · Nov 2013
Association between enhanced access services in pediatric primary care and utilization of emergency departments: a national parent survey.
To measure the prevalence of enhanced access services in pediatric primary care and to assess whether enhanced access services are associated with lower emergency department (ED) utilization. ⋯ The majority of parents report enhanced access to their child's primary care office during office hours, but many parents do not have access or do not know if they have access outside of regular office hours. Extended office hours may be the most effective practice change to reduce ED use. Primary care practices should prioritize the most effective enhanced access services and communicate existing services to families.
-
The Journal of pediatrics · Nov 2013
Psychological and quality of life outcomes in pediatric populations: a parent-child perspective.
To compare the levels of quality of life (QoL) and psychological adjustment of children with different chronic health conditions with healthy children; to compare the QoL of parents of children with a chronic condition with parents of healthy children; and to examine the role of parents' QoL and children's psychological adjustment (ie, internalizing/externalizing problems) on children's QoL. ⋯ Children with chronic conditions, particularly epilepsy and obesity, are at increased risk for maladjustment. A routine assessment of QoL and psychological functioning should be performed in these children to better understand how specific conditions affect the lives of children with chronic conditions and their families. Family-oriented pediatrics should be considered, particularly in the treatment of obesity.