Road to a new Paediatric Health Care Program

Symbolically, nearly a decade after the proposal and rejection of the New Paediatric Care Programme in 2014, the Belgian Academy of Paediatrics is prioritising a constructive dialogue with the government. This begins with a proposal for a new paediatric care programme, structured around the diverse subpopulations of children.

Previous attempts at paediatric care programmes faltered as discussions among professionals and healthcare institutions often devolved into debates over finances and domains, sidelining the provision of quality care. 

In response, this new initiative places the paediatric patient at the centre, guided by core principles of equity, equality, and children’s rights for all paediatric patients, as outlined in the EACH Charter. 

The programme is built on a foundation of inclusivity and collaboration, addressing the needs of both the "Healthy Child" and the "Vulnerable Child." It recognises the importance of involving children, parents, and an expansive panel of experts from all facets of paediatric care. 

At this stage, Kick-off Templates 1 and 2 are not yet available, as Recommendation 9 calls on the government to establish a structural, interfederal expert group. This group would be tasked with developing a comprehensive proposal for more integrated care, involving key stakeholders such as general practitioners, CLB and PSE doctors, ONE-K&G doctors, paediatricians, child and youth psychiatrists, paediatric nurses, midwives, teachers, youth workers, and more. 

The full version of these Kick-off templates are available upon request through info@baop.be .