Hispanic Children and Integrated Care

Hispanic children have many barriers to healthcare and are less likely to receive needed interventions than children of other ethnic groups. The traditional healthcare system does not adequately address barriers such as inadequate training of pediatric primary care providers, financial cost and logistical problems, cultural issues, stigma, and fear. Integrated care may reduce healthcare disparities for Hispanic children. In integrated care, physicians, behavioral health providers, and other health professionals work together using the same treatment plan to manage healthcare. Behavioral health is an integral component of healthcare. There is a focus on screening, prevention, early intervention, and providing culturally competent care. This chapter describes the barriers to healthcare for Hispanic families and demonstrates how integrated care can reduce these problems. Finally, special topics that are particularly relevant in the health management of Hispanic youth will be used to illustrate how integrated care can impact families in these areas.