I am a pediatric resident at University of Washington and Seattle Children’s and I am in the process of implementing universal ACE screening in our pediatric clinics. From conversations I have had with clinic leadership, the largest barrier to screening for ACEs is having a clear algorithm of what to do with a positive result. Our integrated Social Worker does not have the time, unfortunately, to address all the counseling, referral, and resource needs that our patients with high ACEs would require. I am wondering if anyone in this community knows of an organization that we could refer cases too.

 

I am thinking of an organization that acts similarly to “1st Five” in Iowa. 1st Five partners with Pediatric providers to screen for developmental delays and stressors in the home, then coordinates referrals and interventions with families. It is managed by the Iowa Department of Public Health, and reportedly has connected 7,588 families to 19,223 community services.

 

Given more than 90 percent of children ages birth to 5 are seen by a primary care provider, Pediatricians have a unique opportunity to identify and respond early to risk factors that could impact a child’s healthy development, including ACE’s. It seems no-one really knows what to do with a positive ACE screen in the clinic and I am trying to create a referral algorithm for Pediatric faculty and residents, alike, that does not burden our already strapped Social Worker.

 

Any resources, questions, or information you can provide would be extremely helpful. Please feel free to email me directly at the address below.

 

Sincerely,