Original Article

Availability and Perceived Competence of Pediatricians to Serve as Child Protection Team Medical Consultants: A Survey of Practicing Pediatricians

Authors: Donald H. Arnold, MD, David M. Spiro, MD, MPH, Michele Holloway Nichols, MD, William D. King, RPH, MPH, DrPh

Abstract

Objectives: The effectiveness of multidisciplinary child protection teams has been demonstrated. This study is an attempt to assess the level of this commitment and the perceived competence of primary care pediatricians to provide this service.


Methods: A questionnaire survey was mailed to primary care pediatricians practicing in the state of Alabama.


Results: Among respondents who did not consider themselves competent to conduct sexual abuse or physical abuse examinations, 27% and 19%, respectively, were called on to conduct such examinations. Approximately half of respondents expressed a willingness to serve as consultants under a time commitment obligation of less than 2 hours per week or 1 day per month, and under a reimbursement provision of $200 per examination or less. Respondents recognized a need for, and expressed a desire for, more training in this area.


Conclusions: Primary care pediatricians are willing to serve as multidisciplinary child protection team medical consultants if provided appropriate training and support.


Key Points


* This study demonstrates that although many pediatricians are reluctant to serve as child protection team consultants, a significant number are willing to do so.


* The study research reveals that a number of pediatricians who do not currently consider themselves competent are nonetheless called on to conduct examinations for child abuse, and that clinicians who perceive their residency training in this area to have been sufficient tend to perceive themselves as competent.


* This study finds a perceived need and desire of primary care pediatricians, in both rural and urban settings, to obtain more training in the area of child abuse.

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