GENERAL-PRINCIPLES IN THE CARE OF CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS WITH GENETIC-DISORDERS AND OTHER CHRONIC HEALTH CONDITIONS

The intent of this statement is to describe the breadth of issues that have special pertinence to pediatricians who care for children and fa milies affected by genetic disorders and other chronic health conditio ns. The Committee on Children With Disabilities believes that because these children are leading healthier and longer lives, pediatricians a re the more highly qualified to serve them, by virtue of their trainin g and experience, and to provide them a ''medical home.'' This stateme nt is designed to assist pediatricians in the treatment of these patie nts by describing their potential roles in relationship to their patie nts' changing needs, as they work with various members of the health c are team and as they respond to the requirements of government agencie s and various third-party payers.