A SURVEY OF PEDIATRICIANS ON EARLY IDENTIFICATION AND EARLY INTERVENTION SERVICES

In order for Public Law 99-457 (P.L 99-457) Part H to be effective, it is crucial that pediatricians be aware of and participate in communit y early intervention systems. Three hundred and forty-two pediatrician s responded to a questionnaire regarding screening practices, referral methods, and training needs. Nearly all (97%) indicated that they rou tinely performed some type of developmental screening. Most respondent s recommended more training in developmental/behavioral pediatrics in residency programs. Less than half of the pediatricians surveyed were familiar with all of the provisions of P.L. 99-457, even though 83% sa id they were aware of the legislation. The most frequently requested a rea of continuing education was developmental screening (66%), followe d by requests for more information regarding community resources in ea rly intervention (51%). Regional and local seminars were chosen as the type of continuing education most likely to be used by pediatricians. Continuing education is needed to prepare pediatricians for the new r oles and skills needed to fully participate in the early intervention system.