A Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care Center (PPECС) is a nonresidential healthcare service designed for medically or technologically dependent children, as defined by Pierce et al. in 1987. This innovative model aims to meet the complex needs of such families by providing a comprehensive range of specialized care.

Historically, families with chronically ill children faced limited options, including prolonged hospitalizations or homecare with private duty nursing. These solutions often failed to address the child’s psychosocial needs and placed significant economic burdens on families. The PPECC model emerged as a more effective alternative.

At the heart of the PPECC model is a family-centered approach that involves families in the development of a personalized plan of care (POC). This collaborative process empowers families to integrate the child into daily family life while receiving necessary medical support.

Multidisciplinary services are a cornerstone of PPECCs, with a team typically comprising a board-certified pediatrician, registered nurse, social worker, physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech therapist, and behavioral therapist. Together, this team works with the family to establish individualized goals tailored to the child’s unique needs.

To qualify for placement in a PPECC, a child must have a prescription from their attending physician and meet certain eligibility criteria. These criteria include having a complex chronic medical condition, requiring intensive short-term services following an extended hospital stay, and being medically stable.

The PPECC model represents a significant advancement in pediatric care, offering a holistic approach to support medically fragile children and their families. For families seeking specialized care for their child, contacting a PPECC like Aurora Pediatrics can provide the comprehensive support they need to navigate their unique healthcare journey.