CDID Projects

The Center for Discovery, Innovation and Development (CDID) develops, innovates and discovers solutions for advancing the lives of children, adolescents, and young adults with special health care needs and their families. CDID transforms health and health care, through creating disruptive positive change by discovery, development, growth, and implementation of innovative care, products, services, collaborations, and ideas. CDID examines and pursues health improvements by embracing accelerated innovation principles and strategies that focus on the human experience to identify needs, and design solutions to meet them.

Adaptive Apparel

BILLY Footwear: BILLY Limitless

Crafted in partnership with Children's Specialized Hospital's Center for Discovery, Innovation and Development, the BILLY Limitless sneaker is designed to alleviate pain from a variety of medical conditions. This innovative sneaker is not just a shoe; it's a commitment to inclusivity, comfort, and style, designed with invaluable input from clinicians, families, and patients at CSH. A portion of sales will support Children's Specialized Hospital, helping children with unique challenges achieve their fullest potential. Visit the collaboration at BILLY Footwear.

AI & Predictive Analysis

Predictive Health Solutions

CDID has joined forces with Pinnacle Solutions to launch Predictive Health Solutions (PHS), an innovative new company dedicated to advancing healthcare through data-driven, analytical solutions that support better patient outcomes. At a time when healthcare providers face a staggering $150 billion annual loss due to patient no-shows, PHS allows businesses to address this costly issue. Leveraging the combined expertise of CDID and Pinnacle, the initial PHS offering will empower healthcare providers to reduce missed appointments, enhance operational efficiency, and ultimately deliver improved care experiences for patients. This partnership marks a powerful step forward in reshaping the future of healthcare, reducing costs, and keeping patients at the center of care. For more information, visit Predictive Health Solutions.

Community Engagement

Activity Connection

The Activity Connection programs at Children’s Specialized Hospital include recreation, sports, and social activities for children and teens with special health care needs. The programs provide opportunities to make new friends, participate in physical activities, and enjoy new experiences. All programs are led by Children’s Specialized therapists, certified program instructors, coaches, and trained volunteers who provide age-appropriate and safe activities in an inclusive and fun environment. Our community recreation programs are available for patients and members of the public. For more information, visit Activity Connection.

IncludED

IncludED equips your business with the knowledge and tools to effectively support individuals with diverse needs. Through customized training, practical resources, and a commitment to equity, we empower organizations to embed inclusivity into every level of their operations. At IncludED, we’re dedicated to creating a welcoming, accessible environment for people of all abilities. For more information about included, email info@includednow.com.

RWJBarnabas Health Field of Dreams in Toms River

For more information about the RWJBarnabas Health Field of Dreams, please visit the website.

Medical Technology and Advancement

FeedUp

CDID partnered with Function Forward to develop, test and market an innovative nutrition delivery device to assist enteral feeding patients. More than 100 million people are put on feeding tubes each year. The FeedUp™ Feeding Solution removes the need for IV poles and provides feeding tube patients more mobility, independence and freedom. The FeedUp feeding solution has been undergoing evaluation within Children’s Specialized Hospital with a plan to bring to market in early 2025. Through this collaboration, CDID and Function Forward aim to push the boundaries of care and innovation, ensuring all feeding tube patients receive the most effective and supportive solutions for their unique needs. To learn more visit www.feedupsolution.com.

Social Determinants of Health

Health Screenings

CDID launched a fully integrated screening program across all Children’s Specialized Hospital sites and expanded to select Early Intervention (EI) providers in the State of New Jersey, identifying and addressing social determinants of health (SDOH) impacting patients and their families. Recognized nationally by the Institute for Patient and Family Centered Care, The Joint Commission, and the Children’s Hospital Association as a best-in-class model, this program aims to improve patient outcomes by addressing the social factors that contribute to over 80% of health outcomes. Each year, tens of thousands of families are screened, with those requiring additional support referred to appropriate services. Moving forward, CDID plans to further expand screening and referrals to assist even more families facing challenges such as food insecurity, housing instability, transportation, and legal issues.

CSHConnect

CSHConnect is a comprehensive, online resource directory designed to support patients, families, and staff by providing easy access to vital community services. Available at www.cshconnect.com, it offers an up-to-date listing of local resources for needs such as housing, food, transportation, and legal assistance. The platform is continually updated to ensure families and healthcare providers can quickly find and connect with the support they need, helping to improve overall care and outcomes.

Food Bank Partnerships

CDID collaborates with the Community FoodBank of NJ, Fulfill, Mercer Street Friends, and Jersey City Medical Center to support our food bag program. Food insecurity affects nearly 25% of families at Children's Specialized Hospital and is linked to increased risks of chronic health issues in children, including asthma, developmental delays, and poor academic performance. Through these partnerships, we provide essential food resources to thousands of patients and their families each year. Food bags are available at most outpatient sites, helping to address the negative health impacts of food insecurity and support the overall well-being of our pediatric patients.

Moms Helping Moms

It is estimated that 1 in 3 moms in the United States cannot attain diapers for their babies. CDID expanded their partnership with Moms Helping Moms (MHM), to provide free diapers and other essential baby items to underserved families at Children’s Specialized Hospital. Since the program’s inception over 1200 families have received diapers/wipes through this initiative. CDID is working to extend and broaden the reach of this program to other organizations that see families who may have similar challenges. For more information, visit Moms Helping Moms.

Legal Assistance to Medical Patients (LAMP)

In 2021, CDID launched a medical-legal partnership at Children’s Specialized Hospital (CSH) in collaboration with Legal Services of New Jersey (LSNJ). Through the Legal Assistance to Medical Patients (LAMP) project, CSH/CDID provide free legal support to low-income patients and families across all hospital sites. Each year, approximately 300 families are referred for assistance, with top issues including guardianship, special education, housing, and immigration. Recent survey results show high family satisfaction and a significant reduction in stress as a result of the program.