Developmental Coordination Disorder in Alberta: A Journey into Knowledge Translation.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Rehabilitation
• Neurodevelopmental Disorders
• Knowledge Translation

Background:

• Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) is often under-recognized and under-diagnosed, leading to under-utilization of evidence-based practices in pediatric settings.
• A knowledge-to-practice gap for DCD was identified in central Alberta, indicated by low client caseloads and referral rates despite a 5-6% prevalence in children.
• Limited studies exist on knowledge translation strategies to improve DCD practice in pediatric rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development and implementation of a replicable knowledge translation process for integrating DCD evidence into frontline practice.
• To address the under-recognition and under-diagnosis of DCD in pediatric rehabilitation settings.

Main Methods:

• The Knowledge to Action framework was adapted to guide the knowledge translation process.
• Key activities included information dissemination, education, integrating DCD into a neurodevelopmental assessment clinic, and establishing a Community of Practice.
• Evaluation involved surveys, interviews, referral tracking, and database creation.

Main Results:

• Implementation led to increased clinician and stakeholder knowledge regarding DCD.
• Standardization of processes, increased referrals querying DCD, and the establishment of knowledge brokers were observed.
• The strategies resulted in tangible practice changes in pediatric rehabilitation settings.

Conclusions:

• A systematic and pre-determined implementation strategy is crucial for embedding evidence-based practices into frontline care.
• Effective knowledge translation can significantly improve the identification and management of DCD in pediatric populations.
• This process offers a replicable model for addressing similar knowledge-to-practice gaps in other areas of healthcare.