Increased behavioral health needs and continued psychosocial stress among children with medical complexity and their families during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Abstract

Listen

Translate article

ObjectiveChildren with medical complexity (CMC) and their caregivers are at increased risk for multiple psychosocial stressors that can impact child and family well‐being and health outcomes. During the COVID‐19 pandemic, when access to supports diminished, psychosocial screening and integrated behavioral health (IBH) services in the primary care setting were crucial in identifying and addressing the unique needs of this populationMethodsUniversal screening to identify psychosocial needs was implemented in a primary care clinic for CMC that includes IBH services. Data on the prevalence of psychosocial screening and IBH services for young children and their caregivers before and during the COVID‐19 pandemic were evaluatedResultsPsychosocial screening levels remained stable during the pandemic. Psychosocial needs were identified for 36% of screeners prior to the COVID‐19 pandemic and 33% during the COVID‐19 pandemic. The need for IBH services increased during the COVID‐19 time period resulting in a significant increase in IBH servicesConclusionsFor CMC and their caregivers, psychosocial needs identified through psychosocial screening remained high during the pandemic, demonstrating the importance of screening for this population. The need for IBH services during the COVID‐19 pandemic increased, underscoring the value and demand for these services particularly during an unprecedented time.