Developmental screening in community health care centers and pediatric practices: an evaluation of the Baby Steps...

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Developmental Pediatrics
• Public Health

Background:

• Early identification of developmental delays is crucial for intervention.
• Integrating developmental screenings into well-child visits can improve detection rates.
• The Baby Steps Program model addresses the need for systematic developmental assessments in healthcare settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the Baby Steps Program model.
• To summarize screening and referral data from the program.
• To assess the viability of implementing this model in pediatric practices and community health centers through focus groups.

Main Methods:

• The Baby Steps Program model was implemented, integrating developmental specialists into healthcare settings.
• Developmental screenings were conducted with children during well-child visits.
• Focus groups were conducted with healthcare providers to evaluate the program's viability and gather insights.

Main Results:

• Over 43 months, 3,343 children received developmental screenings.
• The program effectively identified children eligible for early intervention services.
• Focus groups provided valuable insights into integrating developmental screenings into clinical practice.

Conclusions:

• The Baby Steps Program is effective in identifying children with developmental delays.
• The program successfully referred children to appropriate community resources.
• Implementing the Baby Steps Program enhances healthcare providers' capacity to screen and manage children with developmental delays.