Characterization and Impact of a Multidisciplinary Outpatient Pediatric Feeding and Swallowing Program

• Published in: Journal of developmental and physical disabilities Vol. 36; no. 5; pp. 885 - 902
• Main Authors: Benton, Kathryn, Delzell, Darcie, Nalepa, Nicole, Fishbein, Mark
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New York Springer US 01.10.2024; Springer Nature B.V
• Subjects: Behavioral Science and Psychology; Child and School Psychology; Chronic illnesses; Comorbidity; Developmental disorders; Eating disorders; Infants; Interdisciplinary aspects; Long term health care; Medical conditions; Original Article; Parental stress; Parents & parenting; Pediatrics; Psychology; Public Health; Referral; Referrals; Multi-professional; Outpatient; Feeding disorder; Pediatric
• ISSN: 1056-263X; 1573-3580
• DOI: 10.1007/s10882-024-09946-8

Pediatric feeding disorders are common and are often associated with chronic medical conditions and developmental disorders. A multidisciplinary treatment approach may be offered through outpatient or intensive programs. Benefit has been demonstrated with intensive programs, but there is little data regarding outpatient approaches. We described outcomes from a well-established outpatient feeding assessment program related to the referral base and program outcomes. Study packets collecting demographics and self-reported feeding skills were distributed to the referral population and redistributed three months later. Standardized surveys implemented included Montreal Children’s Hospital Feeding Scale (MCH-FS) and parenting stress index (PSI-SF). One hundred and ninety-eight subjects completed the initial packet. MCH-FS was elevated in all subjects indicating a broad range of feeding concerns. PSI elevation was present in a broad range of comorbidities compared to group without comorbidities. At 3 months (n = 55), MCH-FS and feeding skills improved without change in PSI-SF. The quality of therapy overall was deemed excellent to above average by most subjects. A multidisciplinary outpatient program has a role in managing infants and children with feeding disorders regardless of comorbidity. Severely affected individuals may benefit from more intensive programs and/or may require long-term care to effect significant change.