Perceptions of a multidisciplinary team regarding a pediatric rehabilitation modified needs assessment.

BACKGROUND: Efficient service delivery models that optimize processes and human resources are required in the current health care climate. A family-centered care approach is recognized as a model that can improve the effectiveness and efficiency of pediatric rehabilitation. The objective of this study was to explore the perceptions of a multidisciplinary health care team regarding the use of the Préparation au plan d'intervention (PAPI), a modified needs assessment tool designed to facilitate a family-centered care approach among children with cerebral motor deficits (CMD) and their families.

METHODS: One focus group was conducted with the multidisciplinary team (n = 10) of the CMD program at a pediatric rehabilitation center. It was audio recorded and transcribed verbatim for content analysis.

RESULTS: Three overarching themes were identified from the analyzes: (1) a facilitator of open communication, (2) a way to gain the unique sense of the child and family and (3) parents as the experts of their child.

CONCLUSIONS: Health care professionals value the use of the PAPI as a way of facilitating a family-centered care plan process, specifically with children with cerebral motor deficits.