Substitution of hospital-based pediatric care using a modular perspective: a case study on care provision for children with developmental disabilities

A modular perspective was used to obtain insights into opportunities for substitution of hospital-based pediatric care in care provision for children with developmental disabilities. This perspective helped to identify modules and components in care provision and revealed opportunities for substitution of certain parts of care from pediatricians towards youth doctors, and vice versa. This substitution may help reduce work pressure for healthcare professionals since identifying gaps and duplications resulted in freeing up time and improved patient satisfaction as patients experience more consistent and coherent care delivery. It also reduces cost of care since duplication is prevented and care is being provided by the appropriate healthcare professional.