Does Length of Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics Training Matter?

Area of Science:

• Pediatric medicine
• Developmental and behavioral pediatrics
• Child mental health

Background:

• Pediatric residencies require 4-week developmental and behavioral pediatrics (DBP) rotations since 1997.
• The impact of DBP training duration on practicing pediatricians' patient care is unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare practice patterns of pediatricians based on DBP training duration (≥4 weeks vs. <4 weeks).
• To assess self-reported management of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, depression, anxiety, behavior, and learning problems.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from the American Academy of Pediatrics Periodic Survey 85.
• Survey assessed self-reported screening, inquiry, and management of various child conditions.
• Weighted analyses accounted for survey response rates.

Main Results:

• Pediatricians with more DBP training were more likely to manage depression, anxiety, behavior, and learning problems.
• No significant differences were found in managing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or screening for mental health conditions.
• Increased DBP training correlated with fewer perceived barriers and greater familiarity with diagnostic criteria and treatments.

Conclusions:

• Longer DBP training is linked to increased treatment of certain conditions.
• Despite improvements, substantial deficits in self-reported pediatric practice remain.
• There is a need for enhanced DBP training to improve clinical practice.