Developmental disorders. When to refer a child to a specialized center

Primary care physicians need to be informed about and attuned to developmental problems in children. Developmental disorders present in infancy and childhood with characteristic symptoms that should alert the physician to the need for in-depth evaluation. This type of assessement can best be carried out in a medically based, multidisciplinary center with a team of professionals who act as consultants to and partners with the physician in caring for the child and family.