This self-directed learning module focuses on preparing adolescent patients with special health care needs for adulthood by promoting their independence in their own self-care; helping them to navigate issues of sexuality, marriage, and parenting; preparing the patient and family to make guardianship decisions during the transition between childhood and adulthood; and planning for higher education or vocation. Emphasis will be on the role of the physiatrist in providing this guidance and its importance in improving the patient's quality of life. It is part of the study guide on pediatric rehabilitation in the Self-Directed Physiatric Education Program for practitioners and trainees in physical medicine and rehabilitation and pediatric medicine. The goal of this article is to refine the learner's knowledge of preparing adolescent patients with special health care needs for adulthood to improve their quality of life.

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This self-directed learning module focuses on the role of accurate diagnosis, psychological support, and family integration of children who have chronic impairments such as pain, spasticity, or cognitive disability. It is part of the study guide on pediatric rehabilitation in the Self-Directed Physiatric Education Program for practitioners and trainees in physical medicine and rehabilitation and pediatric medicine. The role of therapeutic, medical (traditional and nontraditional) and psychological interventions that improve family and individual function are emphasized. The goal of this article is to refine a learner's knowledge of the impact family-centered care can have on the medical, psychological, financial, and functional capabilities of families to improve treatment decisions in the context of children with disability.