The day hospital: a cornerstone in pediatric cancer care
Brussels – February 15, 2025
On the occasion of International Childhood Cancer Day, we highlight the crucial role of the day hospital at the children’s hospital (HUDERF).
Continuous care beyond hemato-oncology hospitalization
Leukemia, cancer, or a hematopoietic stem cell transplant is far more than just a hospital stay. Treatment often extends over several months, requiring regular, specialized care. The day hospital provides this close follow-up while avoiding prolonged hospitalizations, thanks to highly specialized services such as:
- chemotherapy, blood transfusions, and intravenous treatments
- post-transplant monitoring to prevent complications
- follow-up procedures (bone marrow aspiration, lumbar puncture)
- regular blood tests to adjust treatments as needed
This structure helps minimize the time children spend in the hospital while preserving, as much as possible, their family and school life.
Our goal is twofold: to ensure the continuity of essential treatments while limiting prolonged hospitalizations, and to help children regain a sense of normalcy alongside their loved ones
Comprehensive support for children and their families
Beyond medical care, the HUDERF day hospital takes a multidisciplinary approach to support young patients and their families:
- psychologists and social workers to help families cope with the challenges of illness
- hospital teachers to maintain educational continuity
- specialized educators and dedicated play areas to ease emotional strain through play and relaxation
A calming, child-friendly environment
The waiting rooms are thoughtfully designed with playful spaces where children can relax and play. They can also watch colorful tropical fish swim around in aquariums, generously provided by the association Kids'Care.
Everything is arranged so that parents can stay with their child throughout the care process. Their presence offers vital reassurance to the young patient and maintains a strong emotional bond, which is essential in the face of illness.
And to help lighten the atmosphere during difficult moments, the clowns "docteurs Zinzins" regularly visit, bringing laughter, joy, and warmth into the hospital setting.
This organization allows children to maintain a healthy balance between their medical care and their everyday lives, while ensuring optimal, personalized support.
Links:
Hémato-Oncologie pédiatrique | Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola
Cancers pédiatriques à l'Huderf- Interview | Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola
Supporting associations committed to helping children throughout their journey with illness:
Ensemble, pas à pas asbl - Aide morale aux enfants atteints d’un cancer et leurs familles
The Belgian Kids' Fund soutient la recherche pédiatrique