Lidia Gabis1, Raanan Raz. 1. Weinberg Child Development Center, Safra Children's Hospital, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Pediatricians are required to identify and follow-up on children suspected of having developmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorders, cerebral palsy, mental retardation or specific language impairments. This task requires basic up-to-date knowledge in the areas of child development and child neurology. The rest of the inquiry, including reaching a definite diagnosis and treatment plan, will usually be conducted in child development centers or other frameworks. METHODS: The current study examined the knowledge of Israeli pediatricians using an original questionnaire, on a sample of 86 pediatricians. RESULTS: There is high variance among Israeli pediatricians regarding the level of knowledge in the areas of child development and child neurology. This variance is not explained by different variables that were measured, such as place of work (clinic, hospital, "Tipat Halav" - "Well-Child Clinics"), seniority or use of screening tools. Most participants 164%] expressed a demand for professional enrichment in this area.
BACKGROUND: Pediatricians are required to identify and follow-up on children suspected of having developmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorders, cerebral palsy, mental retardation or specific language impairments. This task requires basic up-to-date knowledge in the areas of child development and child neurology. The rest of the inquiry, including reaching a definite diagnosis and treatment plan, will usually be conducted in child development centers or other frameworks. METHODS: The current study examined the knowledge of Israeli pediatricians using an original questionnaire, on a sample of 86 pediatricians. RESULTS: There is high variance among Israeli pediatricians regarding the level of knowledge in the areas of child development and child neurology. This variance is not explained by different variables that were measured, such as place of work (clinic, hospital, "Tipat Halav" - "Well-Child Clinics"), seniority or use of screening tools. Most participants 164%] expressed a demand for professional enrichment in this area.