Family Centered Care Approach

The Bickerstaff physicians will ensure that your child’s special health care needs and family concerns are addressed and an individualized care plan is established based upon the contributions and recommendations of the care team, child and family. The entire Bickerstaff Pediatric Family and HIV Center care team realize that families are an important part of the treatment process and work closely with you, whether it’s a first time clinic visit, a follow-up clinic visit or preparing your child for the Infusion Center. Patients and families gain peace of mind as they become familiar with the health care team and establish relationships that will last throughout their journey.

Preparing for the Infusion Center

If needed, Child Life Specialists are on-hand to prepare children for any procedure or test done in the Infusion Center. Children can learn about the procedure, even before it’s scheduled, by taking a pre-admission tour with their family and a Child Life Specialist.

Patient and Family Education

Your child’s pediatric infectious disease physician provides education relative to the diagnosis, treatment and management of your child’s condition. The nurse specialist can offer education and instruction in specific treatments or procedures, growth and development, health and nutrition and general physical health.

Ask a member of the care team if there are any educational materials you can bring home to learn about your child’s illness and how to manage it or visit the Health Library. There are also special educational materials available to you in the Bickerstaff Pediatric Family Center and the Family Resource Center.