The frequency of chronic illnesses in childhood and adolescence is increasing, with around one in six children in Germany now directly affected. Apart from this, there is a larger group of affected siblings who also deal with the issue of chronic illnesses on a daily basis. It is important to systematically examine and understand the perspectives and experiences of children and adolescents in the interests of patient-centered healthcare, which is also particularly child- and family-friendly.

To this end, PeKiChro will conduct interviews with 1) children and adolescents with a chronic illness and 2) siblings of such children (aged 6-17 years in each case). The interviews will examine what health and illness actually mean from the perspective of the children and young people, what is important to them in healthcare, what role the illness plays in their everyday lives and how siblings also deal with this topic.

The results will be used to further develop our understanding of health and illness in a way that is appropriate for children and young people and, in particular, to strengthen patient-centered care for children and young people, including their family environment.