Funded Projects

Problem:

Developmental and behavioral problems are widespread and have long-term consequences to the child, family and society. Pediatricians are in a unique position to intervene with at-risk children, but often lack the necessary training. Leaders in DBP are needed to advance the field.

Goals and Objectives:

Goal 1: To train fellows for academic leadership positions in DBP in a range of settings; providing them with the knowledge, skills and experiences to excel as clinicians, researchers, educators and advocates Objective 1: Fellows will complete the required 3 year DBP curriculum and demonstrate increasing clinical competence as set forth in an individualized learning plan (ILP), monitored semi-annually. Objective 2: Fellows will demonstrate leadership skills as evidenced by completion of a meaningful research project, teaching, functioning as advocates, and completing one advocacy and one administrative project in 3 years Goal 2: To prepare future practitioners to provide care in a way that incorporates sensitivity to and knowledge of DB issues as they apply to a diversified multicultural population Objective 1: Pediatric residents will be trained to manage a range of DB issues necessary for pediatric practice. Objective 2: DBP faculty will participate annually in training of AECOM medical students and allied health trainees Goal 3: To implement innovative models of continuing education, Collaborative Office Rounds (COR), and distance learning. Objective 1: Program faculty and fellows will participate annually in at least 3 continuing education and distance learning projects aimed at enhancing the DB skills of primary care practitioners (PCPs) Objective 2: Program faculty and fellows will participate annually in at least one COR group. Goal 4: To collaborate with regional and national Title V and related programs. Objective 1: Program faculty will work with 3 local Title V Programs on an ongoing basis. Objective 2: Faculty will assist and collaborate with other organizations to improve DBP services and policies each year. Goal 5: Enhance the ability of professionals to identify, manage and advocate for patients with ASDs by increasing understanding of the medical, educational, and psychosocial needs of this population. Objective 1: Enhance the training of pediatric specialists (DB pediatricians) in clinical, educational, administrative, advocacy and research aspects of the care of individuals with ASDs. Objective 2: Increase exposure of pediatric residents to individuals with ASDs and their complex management needs., expand the knowledge base of primary care physicians and allied health personnel regarding screening for ASDs and meeting the needs of these individuals and their families. Objective 3: Encourage collaboration between medical and other professionals who work with children with ASDs.

Methodology:

We have met each goal through didactic, clinical and community activities geared to each level of training. We provide rich interdisciplinary training to prepare graduates to be leaders in DBP and to deliver state-of-the-art, culturally-sensitive care. We focus on DB issues in both primary care and in the care of children with special health care needs (CSHCN) in the hospital, ambulatory, and community settings. We address the needs of PCPs and to promote better DBP services and policies and undertake new initiatives in distance learning targeting underserved areas. Special features are emphasis on culturally diverse populations with substantial needs, achieving measurable training outcomes, and increasing service in HRSA Region II. We are on target for our ASD supplement.

Coordination:

We have worked closely with MCHB programs and continue collaborations with the LEND program at AECOM, the LEND program at WIHD, the Title V community health center at AECOM'S CFCC, a Federally Qualified Health Center, and the Department of Health. We also collaborate with colleagues locally and nationally on a number of important projects.

Evaluation:

Evaluation is based on our goals and objectives. We follow quantitative performance measures and qualitative feedback, in order to allow trainees and faculty to self-assess and implement changes, facilitating ongoing modification of systems and methods. We assess each goal systematically throughout the 5 year program. We also complete the MCHB Performance Measures on a timely basis.

Experience to Date:

We have met each goal through didactic, clinical and community activities geared to each level of training. We provide rich interdisciplinary training to prepare graduates to be leaders in DBP and to deliver state-of-the-art, culturaily-sensitive care. We focus on DB issues in both primary care and in the care of children with special health care needs (CSHCN) in the hospital, ambulatory, and community settings. We address the needs of PCPs and to promote better DBP services and policies undertake new initiatives in distance learning targeting underserved areas. Special features are emphasis on culturally diverse populations with substantial needs, achieving measurable training outcomes, and increasing service in HRSA Region II. We are on target for our ASD supplement.