Parental interest in comprehensive care for children with attentional concerns

Abstract

Many families seek natural therapies for children. We describe what families want when they seek consultation for natural therapies for children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Our objective was to: a) describe the kinds of problems and therapies used by patients presenting with a concern about ADHD; b) assess interest in counselling about health promotion; and c) describe physician recommendations at the initial consultation about conventional and CAM therapies. We reviewed intake forms, physician reports and laboratory studies for new patients seen in an integrative paediatric clinic between January 2010 and June 2011. Of the 75 new patients, 23 (31%) families had concerns about ADHD. Of these, 70% were boys; the average age was 11.2 ± 3.1 years, and 80% received care from specialists. Eleven patients (48%) were taking a prescription medication, but only three (13%) were taking medicine for ADHD; dietary supplements were taken by 12 patients (52%). Most families were interested in health promotion information about diet (87%), exercise (78%), stress management (74%), and sleep (74%). Of 11 patients tested, 82% had low ferritin. Recommendations focused on health promotion (100%), dietary supplements, such as multivitamins/minerals (71%) and omega-3 fatty acids (82%), and specialist referrals (30%). Families seeking natural therapies for children with ADHD have needs for health promotion and care coordination, which are well addressed using tools and skills already present in the medical home.