AAP Clinical Report: Supporting Home Health Care for Youth With Complex Medical Needs

Most children, teens and young adults with complex health care needs, especially those who use life-sustaining equipment, are cared for at home by families and community services. The American Academy of Pediatrics offers guidance on addressing the needs of these patients and supporting transitions between hospital and homes within a clinical report, “Home Health Care of Children, Adolescents and Young Adults With Complex Medical Needs.” The report, published in the September 2025 Pediatrics (published August 25 online), notes that caring for children with complex chronic conditions at home can be challenging, but also effective and rewarding if needs are met. It is essential that pediatric health care providers establish a coordinated, interdisciplinary plan of care that addresses each child’s individual needs. The AAP recommends a strong care plan that includes the most current medications and equipment, contact information for providers, and updates on the child’s condition that follows the child between hospital and home. Therapies and educational support at home are important and should be reviewed regularly, according to AAP. The report notes that home health care is about quality of life – for the child with medical complexity, their caregivers and their families. The AAP also calls for healthcare funding that ensures children receive necessary services, treatments and support to stay at home and in their communities with their families. Clinical reports created by AAP are written by medical experts, reflect the latest evidence in the field, and go through several rounds of peer review before being approved by the AAP Board of Directors and published in Pediatrics. To request a copy of the embargoed clinical report or an interview with an expert, contact AAP Public Affairs.

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The American Academy of Pediatrics is an organization of 67,000 primary care pediatricians, pediatric medical subspecialists and pediatric surgical specialists dedicated to the health, safety and well-being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults.