title: An initial evaluation of the design of pediatric psychology consultation service with children with diabetes.
abstract: The objective of this study was to review the process of psychology consultation with an outpatient pediatric diabetes service, and provide data regarding assessment and outcome. The purpose was to demonstrate that the inclusion of psychology in the care of the child would enhance the effectiveness of treatment delivery. Over a one-year period, 91 psychological consultations were reviewed for information related to reasons for referral, diagnosis, and treatment. Processes of assessment and collaboration are described. Nearly half of all the participants that were referred for a consultation met the criteria for a psychiatric disorder, including Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, mood disorder or anxiety. Paired t-tests revealed significant improvement in metabolic control from referral to the next clinic appointment. Psychological consultation appears to have a positive impact on selected health outcomes. Given the large number of children with psychiatric disorder, psychological intervention may facilitate adherence and reduce complications associated with poor metabolic control.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychology and Neuropsychology, Mount Washington Pediatric Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA. kgelfand@mwph.org
authors.forename: Kenneth
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Gelfand
authors.forename: Gary
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Geffken
authors.forename: Adam
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Lewin
authors.forename: Amanda
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Heidgerken
authors.forename: Mary J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Grove
authors.forename: Toree
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Malasanos
authors.forename: Janet
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Silverstein
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000553:Ambulatory Care; D001008:Anxiety Disorders / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis; D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis; D002648:Child; D002662:Child Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003922:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 / Q000150:complications / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D005431:Florida; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D019964:Mood Disorders / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis; D010372:Pediatrics / Q000458:organization & administration*; D002666:Psychology, Child; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D012107:Research Design; D012648:Self Care; D016896:Treatment Outcome