Pediatric Abdominal Pain Program
Nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report
Pediatric abdominal pain program
The Abdominal Pain Program at Children’s Mercy is a unique clinical and research program devoted to the evaluation and treatment of pediatric abdominal pain. Nationally, there are a number of “multidisciplinary” pain programs where gastroenterologists and psychologists consult with or refer to each other to provide treatment. Our program is one of a small number of truly integrated programs.
Chronic abdominal pain
Chronic abdominal pain is a common problem that affects up to 20 percent of all school-aged children and teens. Despite how many youth struggle with abdominal pain, there is no clear agreement among medical professionals about how best to manage it. What professionals do agree on is that abdominal pain is complex and, while it can be difficult, it can be treated effectively.
Individualized and comprehensive care
In the Abdominal Pain Program, new patients are assessed by a gastroenterologist and psychologist at the same time, in the same clinic visit. We screen/evaluate for a wide variety of potential biologic, psychologic, and social contributors to pediatric abdominal pain. This allows us to establish a comprehensive plan unique to each child or adolescent patient we see. At the end of the evaluation visit, families are presented with a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the many, various factors thought to be contributing to their child’s pain.
See more information about parent satisfaction and patient-reported outcomes for our program.
Research highlights
Generating and sharing new knowledge about chronic abdominal pain in kids is a vital component of the Abdominal Pain Program's mission. Only through developing a better understanding of this complex condition can we hope to make treatment available and effective for everyone. That’s also why we are an active research program. We are always working hard to improve and routinely incorporate new research findings into patient care. This means that care we provide to your child is always up-to-date and evidence-based.
Pediatric abdominal pain outcomes
We work hard to ensure the best outcomes for our patients with our unique approach to integrated, medical and psychological treatment.