How long will the needs last?
Eczema Duration Guidance
| Age at date of claim | Award Period |
|---|---|
| Under 1 | Award to age 3 |
| 1 - 5 | Award to age 6 (or for 1 year whichever is the longer) |
| 6 - 9 | Award to age 10 (or for 1 year whichever is the longer) |
| 10 - 14 | 2 year award |
| 15 | Award to age 16 or for 1 year whichever is the longer |
What is prognosis and duration for children aged under 1?
Children awarded care on the basis of eczema when they are aged under 1 may have substantially improved by age 3. A significant proportion of such children would be expected to have improved over the period and may now have clear skin or mild eczema. Those who still have care needs should be renewed until the 6th birthday. The 6th birthday is chosen because eczema often flares up badly when children start school around the 5th birthday.
What is prognosis and duration for children aged 1 to 5?
Children aged 1 and over awarded care on the basis of eczema should be awarded to the 6th birthday. A significant proportion of such children would be expected to have improved over the period and may at age 6 have clear skin or mild eczema.
What is the prognosis and duration for children aged 6 and over?
Children with moderate eczema at age 6 are likely to be in the improving group, care needs are not expected to persist beyond age 10. Renewal at age 10 is suggested.
Children in the severe category are more likely to have ongoing eczema at age 10 but many of them will have substantially improved. Those who have not improved are likely to be able to manage the majority of their treatment themselves including use of bath time treatments and application of emollients although help with application of emollients to hard to reach areas may still be required.
Children on systemic therapy (the use of oral drug treatments) will require supervision to ensure that they take their medication at the prescribed dose on a regular basis. They will often need frequent clinical review and blood test monitoring. These children are likely to be those with the most severe eczema. Children are generally able to manage this type of treatment themselves at 12 and children receiving care awards on the basis of eczema aged 10 and over should be renewed every 2 years with fresh medical evidence. The majority of children who still have eczema beyond middle childhood can be expected to improve significantly at puberty.
Children up to 16 years of age
Children with additional conditions such as a learning difficulty or a behavioural disorder, may not be able to manage their treatment at the above ages without help and supervision.
If other particular circumstances are stated to be present preventing self medication, each case must be assessed individually. Confirmation of such circumstances should be obtained from the treating Paediatrician and duration of award details discussed with Medical Services.
