Life Care Planning Issues for Pediatric Swallowing Disorders

Swallowing disorders can occur in children as a result of congenital and acquired disorders. Life care planners who work with children with swallowing disorders should have a basic understanding not only about the complexity of swallowing problems and the potential impact of oral and pharyngeal dysphagia (swallowing disorders) on future care planning, but also on swallowing anatomy and physiology, assessment, and treatment. This first article of a two-part series will discuss pediatric oral and pharyngeal swallowing disorders; how to locate a speech-language pathologist qualified to evaluate, treat, and participate in your life care plan; as well as the components of the plan that relate to swallowing disorders. The article also addresses therapeutic interventions and implications for the life care plan.