The dual pandemics of COVID-19 and racism: impact on early childhood development and implications for physicians

Nicola Brodie1, Joanna E Perdomo2, Elizabeth A Silberholz2

  • 1Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC.

Insights

Racism significantly impacts early childhood development and access to care. New resources aim to help healthcare providers address racism, improve developmental services, and support physician well-being.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Public Health
  • Developmental Psychology

Background:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic exposed significant healthcare and racial inequities.
  • Racism, starting prenatally, adversely affects early childhood physical and mental health.
  • Disparities in accessing developmental services hinder early intervention for children with developmental delays.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review literature on racism's impact on early childhood development.
  • To examine disparities in developmental service access.
  • To identify strategies for promoting healthcare provider well-being.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent research.
  • Analysis of studies on racism and child development.
  • Examination of healthcare system interventions.

Main Results:

  • Early exposure to racism is linked to negative health outcomes.
  • Significant barriers exist in screening and service provision for developmental delays.
  • Pediatric providers face risks of secondary traumatic stress and burnout.

Conclusions:

  • New resources are available to help pediatric providers address racism.
  • Novel approaches to accessing developmental resources have been developed.
  • Strategies exist to protect the pediatric workforce from trauma and burnout.
Abstract

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