Communication and Collaboration With Schools: Pediatricians’ Perspectives

Abstract

The multifaceted effect of chronic illness in children has created a need for pediatricians and school personnel, specifically school psychologists, to engage in collaborative problem solving. However, the extent to which this collaboration actually occurs in practice is unknown. A survey was developed and administered to a national sample of members of the American Academy of Pediatrics to assess their type and frequency of communication and collaboration with school personnel, preferred methods of communication, primary school contact person, and their perceptions of the barriers to and benefits of collaborating with school personnel. Results of this survey yield strategies for school psychologists to facilitate communication and collaboration with pediatricians to assist in meeting the needs of children with pediatric health issues.

KEYWORDS:

• impact of chronic illness in schools
• collaboration with pediatricians
• systems level communication