Children’s Hospitals

As youth with chronic illnesses are living longer and more often surviving into adult life, education in children’s hospitals is receiving increasing attention. Youth who are admitted to children’s hospitals for prolonged periods often report feelings of social isolation from friends, families, and classmates. These hospitalizations are most regularly linked to chronic illnesses, such as sickle cell disease; a new life-threatening diagnosis, such as leukemia; or a trauma, such as a burn injury.

Research demonstrates that adolescents living with serious health conditions often struggle with their transitions into adulthood, and this issue is intensifying as advances in medical treatment and technology allow more of these adolescents to live longer into adulthood, seeking employment and sometimes community support. Indeed, teens with chronic illness are less likely to ...