family can have a wide variety of different interpretations based on the individuals and the circumstances. For example, some groups consider themselves as a family while not actually related. Furthermore, not all those families who are actually related by blood form any kind of functional or cohesive group. Thus it is not uncommon to find a non-related group that acts more like a family than an actual traditional family would. In terms of identifying a family for the purpose of providing care however, the family can be thought of as the personal support system that any patient has; whether they are related or not.

Identifying and enlisting the assistance of a patient's family can be a critical success factor in treating the patient. In one study, the inadequate family-centered care was associated significantly in the treatment of children with special health care needs (CSHCN) across many demographics (Ngui & Flores,...
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