Changes in Health Status for Children With Chronic Health Conditions: Perspective on the Dynamics of Changing Scientific Knowledge, Services and Policy

Award Year: 1997	Investigator: Steven Gortmaker, James Perrin	Budget: $249,628	Categories: Child Health, Chronic Health Conditions
Abstract: The number of children in the U.S. suffering chronic health conditions more than tripled in the past three decades. However, public policies and programs have lagged behind the growth of new knowledge, limiting access to needed services. Focusing on SSI, Medicaid, Maternal and Child Health, and special education, Drs. Perrin and Gortmaker examine the prevalence and program participation of children with chronic health conditions, paying close attention to children living in poverty. Their model uses a society and health approach that recognizes the importance of both socioeconomic environments in the lives of children and scientific advances. The investigators apply a case-based approach to selected chronic conditions in each of five states, studying how health and welfare policies and programs connect with scientific knowledge. Recommendations will be developed to help align policies more closely with knowledge about effective interventions in children with chronic conditions.