Community Networking for Improved Services to Children with Chronic Illnesses and their Families

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
The authors describe a program, developed under the auspices of the Association for the Care of Children s Health (ACCH), that focuses on community networking among children with chronic illnesses and their families The program rests on two beliefs (a) that a network can successfully focus on the generic needs of children with chronic or handicapping conditions and of their families, and (b) that a network can improve care by enhancing coordination and collaboration among existing services without creating new ones Efforts of the past two years have centered on three specific areas preparation and dissemination of written materials, creation of new links among families, health and education professionals, organizations, associations, and community institutions, and training in networking techniques ACCH has prepared two pamphlets for families, schools, and health professionals on community issues and on hospitalization In addition, a demonstration model for community networking has been established in the Houston/Galveston area Finally, training programs in the skills of community networking have been established Work is begining to replicate the community networking model through other ACCH regional affiliates.

This publication has 0 references indexed in Scilit: