Hospitals are creating special clinics for those who may need a lifetime of coordinated care, according to an article on The Wall Street website.

An estimated one-third to one-half of all U.S. spending on healthcare for children with medical complexity, known as CMC. Studies show the population is rising, in part due to the increase in premature and low birth-weight babies. 

Complex-care clinics are typically staffed by dedicated teams of doctors, nurses and social workers who address a range of needs, from nutrition and medical devices to transportation and social services for families.

As more evidence shows the benefit of complex-care initiatives, federal and state programs are starting to fund them and to reimburse care-coordination services. Studies show such services can improve care, reduce costly ER visits and hospitalizations, and ensure all of a child’s needs are met. 

Read the article.