Unveiling the Impact: The Role of Child-Life Specialists in the Canadian Healthcare System

Abstract

Certified Child-Life Specialists (CCLS) play a vital role in supporting infants, children, youth, and families navigating the complexities of illness, trauma, disability, loss, and bereavement. This review ​delineates​ the six core domains of care within which CCLS operate, ​and ​underscores the novel findings regarding the efficacy of CCLS interventions. Through a synthesis of existing literature, the tangible benefits of integrating CCLS within healthcare teams are demonstrated, transcending traditional hospital settings to positively impact paediatric care outcomes across diverse healthcare contexts. ​Moreover, the current study ​contributes to the flourishing discourse surrounding paediatric care in Canada by addressing pertinent issues such as workforce diversity and burnout among healthcare professionals. By advocating for the enhanced integration of CCLS within the Canadian healthcare system, ​this focused review​ underscores the urgency of prioritizing psychosocial care to meet the evolving needs of paediatric patients and their families. By supporting the well-being of CCLS practitioners and promoting their seamless integration within healthcare systems, institutions can enhance patient care quality and advance the goals of patient-centered care.