The Problem
Pediatricians are trained to detect and handle developmental issues, as well as social, emotional & psychological problems, and for the most part are getting the job done.  However, studies show that these problems are generally under-diagnosed, particularly in the under-served population. So where is the disconnect?  The answer, the prevalence of these problems in a typical patient population may range from 8 to 15% and it is relatively easy for 1% or 2% of the children to go undetected (maybe one child every couple weeks). Unfortunately with 70,000 pediatricians in the US, missing on average 1% or 2% of their patient panel, this equates to a huge number and a huge associated cost.

Automated Screening
The advantage of using standard screening measures, combined with a comprehensive screening protocol, is that the Pediatrician's diligence is augmented by consistent screening measures that on average reduce the under-diagnosis error.  In addition, automating this screening process, keeps the brunt of the workload off of the staff.  While augmenting the detection process with automation is cost-effective, there is considerable evidence showing that providing Pediatricians with integrated support services is cost-effective as well.

Care Coordinator Model
Once referred, determining the appropriate referral resources and helping parents/children with logistic hurdles, are tasks that are handled effectively by a dedicated Care Coordinator.  Whether formally organized into a registry/program or on a case-by-case basis, Care Coordinators improve the percentage of detected problems that receive the appropriate treatment.

DART Model
Diagnosis, Assessment, Referral and Treatment (DART) therapists, perform a range of services to streamline treatment.  Typically additional in-depth assessment is performed to better understand the issues.  If a simple intervention is needed, it is performed immediately.  Alternately, the child may be referred to other professionals (psychiatry, psychology, etc) or back to the referring Pediatrician.

BHC Model
Behavioral Health Consultants (BHCs) become an integral part of the medical team, collaborating with Pediatricians and even performing brief interventions during the normal office visit.  This model of care is efficient because: intervening as early as possible limits the progression of problems; BHCs cover a wide range of issues, not just diagnosing a specific referral; and performing interventions as part of a normal visit removes stigma, helping bypass the fallout of patients not showing for referrals.

Level of Integration
As you can see, progressively higher levels of integration & collaboration are being used for detection and treatment of developmental, social, emotional & psychological problems.  Determining the level of integration that works best given your setting (FQHC/CHC, large practice, etc) may take some time, but starting with automated screening is an obvious first step.  Automated screening is low cost, augments detection and enables online aggregate views with no additional work.  Aggregate views demonstrate population prevalence of problems and validate effectiveness of more advanced care models.

Please Contact Us to learn more or discuss how automated screening and one of these Integrated Models will work in your setting.