Nurses advocate preventive focus in child health care

The United States health‑care system has long been described as reactive, with most care delivered after children become ill rather than before. School nurses, who are on the front lines of pediatric health, are calling for a shift toward preventive measures that could benefit children throughout their lives.

Erin Maughan, a school nurse expert and member of the American Academy of Nursing’s Child, Adolescent and Family section, leads a group of colleagues who argue that a stronger focus on prevention—such as routine screenings, health education, and early intervention—would reduce the burden of disease and improve long‑term outcomes. The AAN experts point to the unique position of school nurses to identify risk factors early, coordinate care, and promote healthy behaviors in the school environment.

If the health‑care system were to adopt these preventive strategies, children could experience fewer acute illnesses, lower rates of chronic disease, and better overall health trajectories. The AAN’s call underscores the need for policy and funding changes that support preventive care in schools and beyond.