Journal of Primary Care and General Practice

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Rapid Communication - Journal of Primary Care and General Practice (2025) Volume 8, Issue 3

Evolving pediatric care: Holistic, equitable, integrated

Anjali Deshpande*

Department of Pediatrics, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India

*Corresponding Author:
Anjali Deshpande
Department of Pediatrics
Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India.
E-mail: anjali.deshpande@tmh.org.in

Received : 07-Apr-2025, Manuscript No. aapcgp-205; Editor assigned : 09-Apr-2025, PreQC No. aapcgp-205(PQ); Reviewed : 29-Apr-2025, QC No aapcgp-205; Revised : 08-May-2025, Manuscript No. aapcgp-205(R); Published : 19-May-2025 , DOI : 10.35841/aapcgp-8.3.205

Citation: Deshpande A. Evolving pediatric care: Holistic, equitable, integrated. aapcgp. 2025;08(03):205.

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Introduction

This systematic review explores the critical need for integrating mental health services into pediatric primary care. It identifies key facilitators such as collaborative care models and strong communication, alongside barriers like insufficient training, limited resources, and stigma. The article emphasizes that successful integration requires a multi-faceted approach focusing on provider education, systemic support, and streamlined referral processes to improve mental health outcomes for children and adolescents [1].

This article discusses effective strategies for improving vaccine uptake in pediatric primary care settings. It highlights approaches such as provider recommendations, reminder and recall systems, vaccine champions within practices, and addressing parental concerns through clear, empathetic communication. The authors stress the importance of leveraging the trusted relationship between primary care providers and families to enhance vaccination rates and protect child health [2].

This practical guide outlines current recommendations for preventing and managing pediatric obesity in primary care. It emphasizes the role of early screening, counseling on healthy nutrition and physical activity, and family-centered interventions. The article also touches upon the use of pharmacotherapy and bariatric surgery in severe cases, advocating for a multidisciplinary approach tailored to individual patient needs within the primary care context [3].

This systematic review evaluates the evidence for universal screening of adolescent depression in primary care settings. It finds that such screening is feasible and can help identify adolescents at risk, leading to earlier intervention. The article highlights the need for validated screening tools, clear referral pathways, and adequate mental health resources to support primary care providers in addressing adolescent depression effectively [4].

This article discusses the rapid integration and ongoing role of telehealth in pediatric primary care, particularly accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. It addresses the benefits, such as improved access to care and convenience, alongside challenges like technological disparities and equitable access. The authors suggest strategies for optimizing telehealth's use moving forward, emphasizing hybrid models that combine virtual and in-person visits to meet diverse patient needs [5].

This systematic review examines how pediatric primary care practices are addressing social determinants of health (SDOH). It highlights various interventions, including screening for social needs, providing resource referrals, and integrating community health workers. The article underscores the crucial role of primary care in identifying and mitigating the impact of SDOH on child health outcomes, advocating for systemic changes and robust partnerships [6].

This systematic review evaluates the current landscape of screening for Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) in pediatric primary care. It finds increasing recognition of ACEs' impact on long-term health and a growing trend towards routine screening. The article discusses various screening tools and emphasizes the need for trauma-informed care approaches, robust support systems for families, and provider training to effectively address ACEs [7].

This article presents recommendations from the Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine on universal substance use screening in adolescent primary care. It advocates for routine, brief screening using validated tools to identify at-risk adolescents, facilitate early intervention, and reduce adverse health consequences. The guidance emphasizes confidential, non-judgmental discussions and clear pathways for referral to specialized treatment when needed [8].

This article reviews the current state and future directions for managing chronic conditions in pediatric primary care. It highlights the increasing prevalence of chronic illnesses in children and the critical role of primary care providers in ongoing management, coordination, and support. The authors advocate for enhanced training, integrated care models, and digital health solutions to improve outcomes and ease the burden on families and the healthcare system [9].

This article discusses strategies for advancing health equity in pediatric primary care. It emphasizes identifying and addressing systemic inequities, social determinants of health, and structural racism that disproportionately affect children from marginalized communities. The authors propose integrating equity-focused practices, culturally responsive care, and community partnerships to ensure all children have access to high-quality care and achieve optimal health outcomes [10].

 

Conclusion

Pediatric primary care is evolving to address a wide range of complex child health needs. There's a critical push to integrate mental health services, emphasizing collaborative care, strong communication, and provider education to improve outcomes for children and adolescents. Strategies for improving vaccine uptake are also a priority, relying on provider recommendations, reminder systems, and addressing parental concerns through empathetic dialogue. Managing pediatric obesity involves early screening, counseling on healthy lifestyles, and family-centered interventions, with severe cases potentially requiring advanced medical approaches. Early identification is key for adolescent well-being, leading to initiatives like universal screening for depression and substance use. These screenings aim to identify at-risk youth for timely intervention, underscoring the need for validated tools and robust referral pathways. The role of technology, particularly telehealth, has grown significantly, enhancing access to care and convenience, prompting the development of hybrid care models. Beyond clinical conditions, primary care is increasingly focused on broader social factors. Addressing social determinants of health through screening and resource referrals, as well as screening for Adverse Childhood Experiences, are recognized as vital steps to mitigate long-term health impacts and require trauma-informed care. Moreover, the management of chronic conditions necessitates enhanced training and integrated care solutions. Overall, a central theme is advancing health equity by confronting systemic inequities, social determinants, and structural racism. This involves culturally responsive care and community partnerships to ensure all children achieve optimal health.

References

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