Building an integrated multidisciplinary care model for pediatric inflammatory bowel disease using institutional support

While the bio-psychosocial component of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is now widely acknowledged by doctors, institutional managers, who make decisions about the funding of clinical programmes, are not always aware of the necessity for integrated multidisciplinary care. In this commentary, we highlight important factors to consider when gaining initial approval as well as strategies to maintain institutional support over time. We do this by drawing on our own experience in developing successfully integrated care models within a division of Paediatric Gastroenterology (GI). We discuss the significance of presenting a compelling argument for the inclusion of a psychologist in pediatric IBD care, supporting an integrated model of care delivery, and addressing financial issues at the programme level. Additionally, we examine the advantages of gathering and disclosing programme data to back up the body of knowledge and/or theoretical hypotheses, demonstrate results, and develop additional value streams recognized by the institution (e.g., academic, reputational) in addition to the value to patients. Finally, moving from the theoretical to the practical while continuously framing the debate for a nonclinical/administrative audience is necessary for success in gaining and sustaining institutional support. Although the procedure can take some time, it is ultimately worthwhile because it improves the experience of both patients and clinicians receiving care.