Developmental specialists in Europe: comparison between Healthcare and education systems, and Rehabilitation in child disability

Abstract

In recent years, European policies for the social inclusion of children and adolescents with disabilities have made significant progress, aimed at ensuring equity and equal opportunities in education and rehabilitative healthcare. However, notable disparities persist among European countries in managing disabilities in the developmental age. In Italy, the *Neuro and Psychomotor Therapist of Developmental Age* (TNPEE) is the healthcare professional specialized in prevention, habilitation, and rehabilitation interventions for children, providing a comprehensive development-focused approach. This study compared professional roles and healthcare and educational systems across Europe, analyzing care contexts to identify similarities and differences relative to the TNPEE’s profile and competencies. Results highlight the advantages, disadvantages, and variability in access to services and in the roles of child rehabilitation professionals, emphasizing the unique value of the TNPEE and opening a discussion on the potential for expanding this role beyond Italian borders.