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Collaborative planning between pediatricians and special educators
1Department of Behavioral Pediatrics, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, Missouri.
Pediatric Clinics of North America
|June 1, 1992
Summary
Pediatricians are key in identifying developmental disabilities and connecting children with essential services. This review highlights how pediatricians can actively support disabled children through federal programs from birth to age 21.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Developmental Disabilities
- Public Health Policy
Background:
- Pediatricians serve as the primary point of contact for parental concerns regarding child developmental disabilities.
- Federal legislation mandates educational and related services for disabled individuals from birth through age 21.
- These laws recognize the pediatrician's role in facilitating access to services for this population.
Observation:
- The current involvement of pediatricians in accessing services for disabled children is reviewed.
- The pediatrician's potential for a more active role in supporting disabled children is examined.
- Case examples illustrate the practical application of these roles.
Findings:
- Federal laws provide a framework for pediatricians to actively participate in the care continuum for disabled children.
- Pediatricians can enhance their role in early identification and intervention for developmental disabilities.
- Effective utilization of existing legislation can improve service access for children with disabilities.
Implications:
- Strengthening the pediatrician's role can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes for children with developmental disabilities.
- Increased pediatrician engagement can optimize the use of federal resources for disabled populations.
- This review provides a roadmap for pediatricians to become more effective advocates and service facilitators.