Bariatric Surgery As a Last Resort for Extreme Childhood Obesity
At her heaviest, a 14-year-old patient at Children’s Hospital & Medical Center weighed 362 pounds, had a body mass index greater than 52, and suffered from a host of health issues related to her weight. Her family tried diet, exercise plans, and medication over the years, but the girl continued to gain weight.
Early Intervention for Autism Spectrum Disorder
According to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in 68 children is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) – up from 150 in 2002. ASD is now the diagnostic category listed in the DSM-V to describe a group of developmental disorders encompassing a range of symptoms and levels of disability.
Children and Informed Consent
Children present unique challenges to healthcare providers, particularly regarding consent. A patient’s absolute right to make informed decisions regarding his or her medical care is the foundation of informed consent, yet children are not able to make informed decisions. The American Medical Association states, “Physicians should sensitively and respectfully disclose all relevant medical information to patients. The quantity and specificity of this information should be tailored to meet the preferences and needs of individual patients.”