Application of the Medical Neighborhood to Children with Severe Obesity

Background: Growth in the prevalence of severe pediatric obesity and tertiary care pediatric weight management programs supports the application of chronic disease management models to the care of children with severe obesity. One such model, the medical neighborhood, aims to optimize care coordination between primary and tertiary care by applying principles of the Patient-Centered Medical Home to all providers. Methods: An exploration of the literature was performed describing effective programs, approaches, and coordinated care models applied to pediatric weight management and other chronic conditions. Results: Though there was a paucity of literature discovered with applications specific to pediatric weight management, relevant disease management and care coordination approaches were found. Proposed applications to the care of children with severe obesity can be made. Conclusion: The application of the medical neighborhood framework, with its inclusion of healthcare and community partners, may optimize the management of children with severe obesity.