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Provider Perspectives of Barriers to Delivering Care for Pediatric Functional Neurological Disorder

A Thematic Analysis

Iskander JM, Kreuzman J, Watson M, et al.

Published in Pediatric Neurology

  • Pediatric, Youth
  • Clinical Study, Research Translation

Key takeaways

  • FND care doesn’t fit neatly into traditional healthcare systems.
  • There’s limited access to healthcare professionals with FND expertise.
  • Many providers lack education and confidence in treating FND.
  • Coordinating care between different specialists is challenging.
  • Insurance coverage and financial support for FND treatment are often inadequate.

Overview

Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is a condition where the brain has trouble sending and receiving signals, causing physical symptoms that can’t be explained by other medical conditions. This article explores the challenges healthcare providers face when treating children with FND in the United States. The study aimed to identify the main obstacles to providing effective FND care from the provider’s perspective, with the goal of improving care for young people living with FND.

Discussion

Researchers surveyed 29 healthcare professionals from various disciplines about barriers to FND treatment. The study revealed that the U.S. healthcare system isn’t well-designed for timely and sufficient FND treatment. Four main themes emerged:

  1. Limited access to specialists: There’s a shortage of healthcare professionals with expertise in pediatric FND, especially in mental health.
  2. Lack of provider education: Many healthcare providers feel uncomfortable or uncertain about diagnosing and treating FND due to limited training.
  3. Coordination challenges: Providers struggle to coordinate care and communicate effectively within multidisciplinary teams. This is particularly important for FND, which often requires a whole-person approach to treatment.
  4. Financial barriers: Insurance coverage for FND treatments is often limited, and there’s a lack of financial support for developing FND programs.

These barriers existed across different locations, treatment types, and specialties, highlighting the need for system-wide improvements.

Next Steps

If you or a loved one is dealing with FND, consider these actions:

  • Advocate for better FND education among healthcare providers.
  • Seek out specialists with FND expertise, even if it means traveling.
  • Ask your healthcare team about coordinating care between different specialists for a whole-person approach.
  • Explore insurance options and discuss coverage for FND treatments with your provider.
  • Connect with FND support groups for resources and community support. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey.
  • Stay informed about new developments in FND care and treatment options.
  • Practice self-care and focus on overall wellness, not just managing symptoms.

By working together, patients, families, and healthcare providers can overcome these barriers and improve care for young people with FND. Your experiences and voice matter in shaping better FND care for the future.

Reference

Iskander JM, Kreuzman J, Watson M, et al. Provider Perspectives of Barriers to Delivering Care for Pediatric Functional Neurological Disorder: A Thematic Analysis. Pediatric Neurology. 2025;165:68-73. doi:10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2025.01.011

https://www.pedneur.com/article/S0887-8994(25)00019-0/abstract

This summary is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, financial, or legal advice. It is not intended to replace professional consultation or treatment. Always consult qualified healthcare providers regarding your specific circumstances, symptoms, or questions.

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