ABSTRACT
Moebius syndrome is a rare congenital disorder characterized by nonprogressive uni- or bilateral abducens nerve (VI) and facial nerve (VII) palsy. Other cranial nerves (CN) such as CN III, IV, and IX-XII may be involved leading to varied presentations. Speech development, communication, and psychomotor complications are common. Given the complexity of the disease, patients require an individualized, multidisciplinary care plan involving many medical specialists. Accessing this level of care without insurance poses seemingly insurmountable challenges and places immense financial strain on both patients with Moebius syndrome and their families. Physicians must advocate for patients with Moebius syndrome and be knowledgeable about the community resources available to them such as non-profit organizations. This report presents a case of Moebius syndrome in an uninsured, immigrant, 13-year-old male and the barriers to providing him with adequate care.
ABSTRACT
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that presents with delays in developmental milestones, social impairment, and behavioral difficulties. Treatment relies upon an intensive individualized multidisciplinary medical and therapeutic approach. This case presents a child affected by ASD and other associated conditions, whose care was significantly limited by the effects of social determinants of health, including lack of transportation, housing instability, low income, and most importantly, lack of health insurance. Without universal health coverage, the US healthcare system requires that patients have insurance or pay out-of-pocket to access medical care. It is vital that healthcare providers are able to recognize and address these barriers in order to help pediatric patients and their families navigate a difficult and often inequitable healthcare system. It is also crucial to emphasize the importance of healthcare providers, policymakers, and advocacy organizations to work together to address the systemic barriers that limit access to quality care for children with ASD.
ABSTRACT
Type 1 diabetes mellitus is a rare pediatric condition that is complex to treat and requires careful life-long management. This report outlines a case of a pediatric patient who recently immigrated to the United States without financial resources or health insurance. The social determinants of health play a prominent role in this case as they have created barriers for the patient in obtaining insulin and maintaining adequate glycemic control. Pediatricians should be aware of how social determinants of health influence glucose management and be prepared to help their patients overcome barriers to parental education and treatment.
ABSTRACT
Ectodermal dysplasia describes a group of disorders that involve abnormal development of ectodermal tissue, including hair, teeth, and sweat glands. This report presents a case of a child affected by ectodermal dysplasia presenting as abnormal teeth development. Social determinants of health, including recent immigration from an underserved area and lack of funds, have limited this child from an earlier diagnosis and have formed barriers to access proper oral rehabilitation.
