Being a small specialty, the Pediatric Intensive Care community believes its strength lies in its close professional relationship and in the multidisciplinary character of our group. The core aim of Be-Pics is to promote the quality of Pediatric Intensive Care through training, research and education. Be-Pics also collects and disseminates information, supports establishment of a Belgian PICU-registry and aims to offer a forum for discussion. Be-Pics wants to convey the knowledge and organization in the field of Pediatric Intensive Care in a positive manner to the public, and seeks to transparently represent the view of its members on a national (other societies, policy makers) and international level.

Fortunately, life-threatening conditions in children are rare. However, there are important differences in the presentation and treatment of diseases leading to organ failure in children, when compared with adult patients. In addition, technical support for children with organ failure requires appropriate equipment, knowledge and experience. A holistic approach with attention to the specific psychological needs of the child and it’s family is crucial and requires the necessary expertise. In our view, care for critically ill children should be centralized in specially equipped units with specifically trained physicians and nurses, and with support from other relevant pediatric specialties. That is why we strive for the recognition of Pediatric Intensive Care Departments, as well as for the recognition of specific training programs, both in Pediatric Intensive Care Medicine as for PICU-nurses in Belgium.

To meet European standards, we work closely together with the European Society of Pediatric and Neonatal Intensive Care (ESPNIC).

Be-Pics aims to be an organization FOR and BY its members. As this will define how strong we are, we welcome all members to join the scientific or educational working groups and help shaping YOUR Be-Pics.