Children’s hospitals are seeing a growing number of children with behavioral and mental health needs; often, families don’t know where to turn. This has put pressure on facilities not designed to care for combative, aggressive or at-risk patients.
This complex issue is leading to higher costs of care and longer hospital stays, contributing to provider burnout and injuries, and uncovering the lack of specialized community services.
New strategies are needed to ensure these children have the best outcomes. Many children’s hospitals are developing programs that support staff in recognizing signs, preventing escalation, and connecting patients and families with the right kind of care.
Key Topics
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Clinical Care
See how children’s hospitals are addressing behavioral health needs on an operational level, from screening to staffing to care management.
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Community Partnerships
Pediatric institutions are increasingly establishing relationships with schools, first responders and other local organizations to make an impact on behavioral health issues.
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Employee and Patient Safety
Safety for staff and patients with behavioral health needs is a growing concern and children’s hospitals are finding new strategies for maintaining safe environments.
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Population Health
Addressing demographics that influence child health are integral to managing behavioral concerns and achieving greater overall public health outcomes.
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Resources Index
Search all behavioral health resources by subtopic or resource type.