Individual Healthcare Plan for Type 1 Children in School

Getting your child ready for school can be trying for any parent. Throw type 1 diabetes in the mix and there’s even more to consider. And transferring care of your child to school staff can feel downright scary. How do you know that this entrusted person really understands type 1 diabetes (T1D) management? How can you ensure that their care will be prioritized as well as their rights will be preserved in the schoolroom? Legislation which protects the right to care and inclusion in the schoolroom varies between countries, so its important to do your research and know what kind of documents are required before your T1D kiddo starts class. Check out Beyond Type 1’s resources to find out which individual healthcare plan applies to your child’s school.

In 2010, Canada’s Parliament ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which requires that schools implement individualized support measures to allow children with diabetes to participate fully in schools. Diabetes Canada recommends that students with diabetes have an Individual Care Plan (ICP) with information and instructions for school personnel regarding the student’s diabetes management and emergency plans.

According to Section 100 of the Children and Families Act 2014, schools have a duty to support children with medical conditions such that the child can play a full role in school life. To accomplish this, any child with a medical need, including diabetes, should have an Individual Healthcare Plan (IHP). The IHP details what care a child needs in school, when they need it and who is going to give it. It should include a picture of the child, information about medication and possible side effects and what to do in case of an emergency. The IHP should be written by the parent, health professionals and the school.

Section 8 of the Education Act of 1989 says that children with special education needs, including needs resulting from disabilities, have the same right to receive education in state schools as children who do not. The “Clinical Network for Children and Young People’s Diabetes Services” has developed a collection of management plans designed to create a safe environment for children with diabetes. This plan lists the specific care necessary and the key people responsible for supporting the child with diabetes. Families are advised to complete the plan with relevant healthcare professionals before sharing the plan with school staff.

Under the federal government’s Education and Care Services National Law, all schools must have a diabetes policy. Some, but not all, states mandate that schools have individual diabetes management plans for children. Diabetes Australia recommends that families create a diabetes-specific management plan detailing the support required by the school staff.

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Living in the United States? Check out how to create a 504 Plan.