Date of Award
Master of Science in Education
Much emphasis has been placed on early detection of developmental delays and disabilities due to increased knowledge regarding the important role early intervention can play in a young child's development. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) published policy statements in 2001 and 2006 describing the role of pediatricians in the process of developmental surveillance and screenings. This study seeks to determine the current developmental surveillance and screening practices of pediatricians and family physicians in the southern nine counties of Illinois. Specifically the study aims at looking at to what extent pediatricians/family physicians use standardized developmental screening tools to screen infants and toddlers as described in the AAP recommendations. What methods are pediatricians currently utilizing to screen infants and toddlers (standardized instruments, self made checklists, clinical judgment) In addition, this study looks at to what extent do pediatricians/family physicians follow the AAP's recommendation process for referrals of infants and toddlers identified as at-risk for developmental delays?