Edward L Schor, Tali Klima, Holly K M Henry, Allison Gray, Megumi J Okumura
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Background and objectives: Families of children with special health care needs (CSHCN) have reported to benefit from social, emotional, and informational support from other families (peer support) with similarly affected children. Pediatric subspecialists often serve as the primary medical providers for CSHCN, as well as educators for these children's families. The extent to which subspecialists refer families to sources of peer support is unknown.
Methods: A statewide online survey of California pediatric subspecialists investigated opinions about the potential value and challenges of peer support. Data was obtained on the frequency with which families in their practices were referred to peer support, practice characteristics, and personal demographics. Weighted data, descriptive statistics, and regression models were used to characterize and predict factors affecting referral services.
Results: There were 388 respondents, a response rate of 14.5%. Subspecialists were generally unfamiliar with peer support resources in their communities, but many more knew of peer support programs in their institutions. Most (> 85%) held positive views about peer support, though only 40% of practices often referred families for such support. Individual opinions did not predict practice referral processes for peer support which were more influenced by knowledge of resources, and availability of time, staffing, and institutional peer support resources.
Conclusion: Offering referral to peer support services is compatible with pediatric subspecialty care. Educating physicians about available resources, assigning responsibility, providing staff time for referring families, and incorporating parent mentors into subspecialty practices can increase access. Future studies of families' referral experiences are needed.
期刊介绍:
Maternal and Child Health Journal is the first exclusive forum to advance the scientific and professional knowledge base of the maternal and child health (MCH) field. This bimonthly provides peer-reviewed papers addressing the following areas of MCH practice, policy, and research: MCH epidemiology, demography, and health status assessment
Innovative MCH service initiatives
Implementation of MCH programs
MCH policy analysis and advocacy
MCH professional development.
Exploring the full spectrum of the MCH field, Maternal and Child Health Journal is an important tool for practitioners as well as academics in public health, obstetrics, gynecology, prenatal medicine, pediatrics, and neonatology.
Sponsors include the Association of Maternal and Child Health Programs (AMCHP), the Association of Teachers of Maternal and Child Health (ATMCH), and CityMatCH.