Belgian healthcare specialists are calling for the official recognition of paediatric rehabilitation as a distinct medical specialty. On 2025-08-04 18:23:00, experts from seven rehabilitation centres and hospitals jointly appealed to Minister of Health Frank Vandenbroucke to address this urgent need. They argue that the challenges faced in treating children differ significantly from adult rehabilitation, requiring dedicated expertise and resources.
- Specialists urge recognition of pediatric rehabilitation
- Pediatric rehabilitation presents unique medical challenges
- No official care program limits resource availability
- Centers report insufficient funding for pediatric care
- Lack of recognition increases costs for parents
- Minister Frank Vandenbroucke receives formal request
Currently, the absence of a recognised care programme for paediatric rehabilitation leaves centres struggling with limited funding. This shortfall not only impacts the quality of care but also increases costs for families seeking specialised treatment for their children. How can Belgium ensure that young patients receive the tailored support they deserve?
With growing awareness of these issues, what steps will the government take to support paediatric rehabilitation? The following fast answer summarises the situation for Belgian families and healthcare providers.
Why is paediatric rehabilitation so crucial, and what makes it unique? The specialists highlight key factors that differentiate it from adult rehabilitation:
- Children’s developmental needs require specialised treatment approaches.
- Existing programmes lack tailored protocols for paediatric cases.
- Funding gaps hinder access to necessary therapies and equipment.
- Parents face higher out-of-pocket costs due to insufficient coverage.
Looking ahead, it is vital for Belgian policymakers to prioritise paediatric rehabilitation. Recognising it as a separate specialty could transform care standards and ease the financial strain on families. Will the government respond swiftly to this call from frontline experts?
