When a child first receives a diagnosis of autism or other behavioral condition or developmental delay, their parents or caregivers will likely have a lot of questions about what to do next. The systems that are in place to help kids get the interventions they need, as well as get on the path to entering the school system, can be complicated and difficult to navigate for many families.

In the latest episode of the Cognoa “In the Know” podcast, experienced pediatrician and Past President of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Dr. Colleen Kraft offers clear guidance on advising families on what next steps to take, and how to partner with them along the way.

This discussion covers a number of services available and the central role that a primary care physician can take in steering families toward these programs, including local early intervention programs, the variety of therapy types that can be recommended (such as speech and language, functional, occupational) based on the child’s strengths and deficits, and even advising on the child’s Individual Educational Plan (IEP) with the local school district.

In describing the role of the pediatrician in the care of a child with autism, Dr. Kraft says, “This is really the pediatric concept of ‘medical home’, where the medical home is that known place of care. It’s the relationship with somebody who is trusted, who can help you out with communicating with other team members. Sometimes it’s a referral or a pre-authorization. Sometimes it’s really listening and helping to synthesize the information that parents and families bring to look at next steps. For many families, your medical home is kind of your center of care. Your pediatrician knows the toolbox, and they help you to navigate all the systems of care with their toolbox.”

Our new podcast series, In the Know, regularly features conversations with top experts in behavioral and developmental health to provide information and insights for clinicians and for families of children with developmental delays.

“In the Know, Presented by Cognoa” can be found on most major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Podbean, and others. Be sure to subscribe so you can be sure to catch the future episodes when they are available!