Training in Paediatric Neurodisability
Welcome to the wonderful world of paediatric neurodisability – it is a fascinating and varied sub-specialty!
What does a paediatric neurodisability doctor do?
- We work with children and young people with disabilities, both visible (like cerebral palsy and Duchenne muscular dystrophy) and invisible (like autism, ADHD and learning disabilities), with a focus on promoting their participation and quality of life.
- These children and young people require a strong multi-disciplinary approach to their management, therefore co-ordinating the team around the child and young person is a key role of a neurodisability doctor, as well as identifying and managing the complex co-morbidities.
- A lot of our time is spent in outpatient clinics (often in special schools or community centres) and working with the multidisciplinary team. We sometimes see patients on the ward, and lots of us have interests in education, research and management.
What makes a good paediatric neurodisability doctor?
- As with all branches of paediatrics, but particularly as a neurodisability doctor, communication skills are absolutely key – with children, with families and with colleagues.
- In addition, our children and young people are often very complex, so a thorough and holistic approach to their care is important.
- We also often work with very vulnerable children, young people, and families; compassion and a dedication to advocacy are vital.
Things we enjoy about neurodisability as a career include:
