Role of the pediatrician in family-centered early intervention services.
There is growing evidence that early intervention services have had a positive influence on the developmental outcome of children with established disabilities or those considered "at risk" for disabilities and their families. Various federal and state statutes now mandate that community-based, coordinated, multidisciplinary, family-centered programs be established, which are accessible to serve children and families in need. The pediatrician, in close collaboration with the family and the early intervention team, plays a critical role in guiding the clinical and developmental aspects of the early intervention services provided. This role can be best served in the context of providing a medical home for children with special health care needs. The purpose of this statement is to assist the pediatrician in assuming a proactive role on the multidisciplinary team providing early intervention services.
D002675:Child, Preschool; D002658:Developmental Disabilities; D019988:Children with Disabilities; D018479:Early Intervention, Educational; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D010348:Patient Care Team; D010372:Pediatrics; D010819:Physician's Role