| The Enhanced Pediatric Program
Our Challenge: Recent research on understanding of the human brain points out the importance of the first three years of life. In addition to health factors, such as nutrition, lead poisoning and premature birth, a child's early experiences shape them socially, emotionally, intellectually and physically. While genes are important, daily experiences actually shape the “wiring” of the brain. New technology such as pet scans has confirmed this important fact. Synapses formed between neurons will either grow stronger if used repeatedly or will disappear if under-stimulated.
Our Response: The Enhanced Pediatric Primary Care Program at Boston Medical Center was informed and shaped by this research and developed by staff and parents. The program stresses healthy child development and prevention through four sets of services:
- The Basics
- Enhanced Office Visits
- Expanded Preventive Services
- Women's Health
The Basics
Enhanced Office Visits
- Reach Out and Read
- Emphasis on child development (modeled after Healthy Steps)
- ARCH Informatics (Parent/Patient Education)
Expanded Preventive Services
Women's Health
Key principles and values
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Family-Centered Care: The program respects the expertise and responsibility that families bring to all aspects of their child's care.
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Quality medical services emphasizing prevention.
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Cultural competence: services and all aspects of communication accommodate language and cultural needs of families; BMC Interpreter Services enable families to communicate their needs, concerns, and participate in the care of their children delivered within the program. Every effort is made to hire support staff who are culturally and linguistically matched to our patients (for example, our Latino Clinic and Haitian Health Institute).
Other Resources
For more information:
Pediatric Primary Practice
Ambulatory Care Center, 5th Floor
850 Harrison Avenue
Boston, MA 02118-2393
Appointments:
(617) 414-5946 |
