SYSTEMS OF CARE: A PRIMER FOR CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRISTS

Abstract

This Clinical Perspectives will provide an overview of the key principles and concepts of systems of care to child and adolescent psychiatrists. The presentation will also review training issues and recent challenges addressed by systems of care and discuss the ongoing evolution of the approach. These presentations will result from a review of the literature with a focus on the recent AACAP Clinical Updates and Systems-Based Practice Tool Kits for trainees. In addition, speakers will present from their experiences as clinicians and policymakers in child-serving systems of care organizations. William David Lohr, MD, will define the core values and guiding principles of systems of care. Kaye McGinty, MD, will review training issues related to preparing future child and adolescent psychiatrists for a systems-based practice. Lisa Fortuna, MD, MPH, will address current trials including disaster readiness and the COVID-19 pandemic, and how the systems of care philosophy may address these challenges. Jeff Bostic, MD, EdD, will review strategies that the National Training and Technical Assistance Center for Child, Youth, and Family Mental Health (NTTAC) employs to implement more effective systems of care programs. Melinda Jane Baldwin, PhD, LCSW, will address the future structure that systems of care may take as they evolve to better serve youth and families. Justine Larson, MD, will take themes of all presentations to summarize the essential elements of systems of care that are crucial for child and adolescent psychiatrists to understand. Systems of care approaches continue to evolve to improve the lives of youth and families to overcome challenges and reduce disparities. Training the future generation of child and adolescent psychiatrists in systems of care philosophies and practices will help clinicians better utilize their talents and skills within a systems-based practice.