[Total care of children with speech disorders]

The health care of children with speech disorders, ranging from diagnosis to handling by local health centers, was reported based on our experience in Fukui Prefecture. With regard to diagnosis, it was stressed that both medical diagnostic and developmental diagnostic viewpoints are necessary. With respect to practical aspects of health care, the role of physicians in a treatment team and the formation of a team in response to the specific type of disorder was discussed. In addition, various problems and their handling within the context of the social environment surrounding the care of children with speech disorders was also covered. Lastly, it should be stressed that fundamentally the therapy of speech disorders should not rely solely on personal training; an understanding of the mind of children affected by speech disorders is vital to successful treatment.