Specialist healthcare needs of children with developmental disabilities

Early intervention is crucial for children with developmental disabilities, but we must recognise that many children will require specialist healthcare support for much of their lives.

In this step, Nathaniel Scherer (LSHTM) discusses the various specialist healthcare needs of children with developmental disabilities, including rehabilitation therapies, assistive technology and mental health care.

Although the availability of specialist services may be limited in some settings, it is important to recognise the need. By recognising the need, we can begin to reduce the treatment gap.

• Which specialist healthcare services for children with developmental disabilities are available in your setting?
• Which are not available?