Commentary: Healthcare reform and psychology's workforce: preparing for the future of pediatric psychology.

Upcoming changes to the healthcare delivery system, detailed in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA; Public Law No: 111–148, March 23, 2010), focus on the growing expectation that interprofessional organizations (institutional practices such as accountable care organizations (ACOs) and patient center healthcare homes) will become the nexus of the delivery of efficient, cost effective, and quality healthcare services (Orszag & Emanuel, 2010; Rozensky, 2011). If the legislation survives the legal battles currently being waged, the healthcare delivery system will look very different by the end of this decade (Clay, 2011). The healthcare workforce of the future must be prepared to enhance quality of patient care utilizing defined, interprofessional competencies as they practice within an increasingly evidence-based, team-based, integrated care system—from prevention to primary to tertiary care—and for patients and families across the lifespan (Institute of Medicine, 2001; Wilson, Rozensky, & Weiss, 2010). This article describes several challenges and opportunities facing professional psychology given the upcoming demands of the ACA and evolving healthcare system. We argue that preparation for increased institutional practice is required and that several philosophical and practical changes will be necessary as our profession adapts to this new healthcare system. The interprofessional strengths of pediatric psychology are discussed in particular and specific opportunities and recommendations are offered to enhance the future of pediatric psychology in (the new) healthcare. Some Questions Professional Psychology Might Answer to Prepare to Successfully Participate in Upcoming Changes to the Healthcare System