1
|
Colvin MK, Reesman J, Glen T. Altered Trajectories: Considering the Long-Term Impact of Educational Disruption during the COVID-19 Pandemic on Neurodevelopment and a Call to Action for Neuropsychology. Arch Clin Neuropsychol 2024; 39:305-312. [PMID: 38520379 DOI: 10.1093/arclin/acae021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in educational disruption of historic breadth and duration. The impact of school closures and remote learning have been evaluated in recent studies and reflect critical data for neuropsychologists who routinely assess brain development as it relates to diagnosis, recommendations, and informing public policy. METHOD Pre-pandemic and contemporaneous literature was summarized, including data on educational disruption and child and adolescent mental health challenges reported during the pandemic, and research on the impact of stress, social isolation, educational achievement, and other factors on brain development during critical developmental windows. RESULTS Studies indicate that prolonged educational disruption has resulted in attenuated learning gains, most remarkably for those already at risk for educational disparities. Studies have shown increased mental health challenges for youth during the pandemic, with higher rates of mood and eating disorders, and suicidal ideation. Given that some skills develop optimally within specific time periods, pandemic-related disruption has likely contributed to altered developmental trajectories. CONCLUSION Trajectory of neuropsychological development of children and adolescents, especially marginalized students, may be affected by effects on learning and mental health due to prolonged educational disruption and psychological stressors. Evaluation and treatment may be delayed due to backlog and increased demand. Clinical neuropsychological practice recommendations are presented with a call to action for the field in moving forward flexibly to increase access to evaluation services.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary K Colvin
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jennifer Reesman
- Chesapeake Center for ADHD, Learning and Behavioral Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Pozniak K, Swain A, Currie G, Doherty-Kirby A, Grahovac D, Lebsack J, Campbell W, Humphreys C, Patterson S, Raha S, Whitley J, Kraus de Camargo O. What supports and services post COVID-19 do children with disabilities and their parents need and want, now and into the future? Front Public Health 2024; 12:1294340. [PMID: 38655511 PMCID: PMC11036871 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1294340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Children and youth with disabilities and special healthcare needs, and their families, have been uniquely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the voices of children themselves are still not well represented in the existing literature. Methods This qualitative descriptive study used a combination of visual methods and interviews to learn about the experiences of Canadian children with disabilities (n=18) and their parents (n=14) during the COVID pandemic and into the post-pandemic period. Data collection was carried out between January and July 2023. The aim was to identify the supports and services children and families need at present and moving forward. Results Families' pandemic experiences were complex and nuanced. For many, the pandemic complicated and disrupted everyday activities and supports. These disruptions were largely buffered by parents. However, some families also identified unexpected benefits. Key themes pertaining to present and future needs included the need for services that are flexible; consistent; conducive to relationship-building; comprehensive; coordinated across sectors; and designed to support the needs of the whole family. Discussion Implications for policy and practice are outlined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K. Pozniak
- CanChild Centre for Childhood Disability Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - A. Swain
- CanChild Centre for Childhood Disability Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - G. Currie
- CanChild Centre for Childhood Disability Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Mount Royal University, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - A. Doherty-Kirby
- CanChild Centre for Childhood Disability Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - D. Grahovac
- CanChild Centre for Childhood Disability Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - J. Lebsack
- CanChild Centre for Childhood Disability Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - W. Campbell
- CanChild Centre for Childhood Disability Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - C. Humphreys
- Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - S. Patterson
- Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - S. Raha
- Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - J. Whitley
- Faculty of Education, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - O. Kraus de Camargo
- CanChild Centre for Childhood Disability Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Spencer P, Verlenden JV, Kilmer G, Pampati S, Moore S, Rasberry CN, Claussen AH. Receipt of and Satisfaction with School-based and Virtual Special Education Supports and Therapeutic Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic. JOURNAL OF ONLINE LEARNING RESEARCH 2024; 10:91-112. [PMID: 38817908 PMCID: PMC11138653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic impacted school-based delivery of special educational supports and therapeutic services. This study describes student receipt of school-based supports/services and parent satisfaction by instruction modalities during the 2020-2021 academic year in the United States. Data were collected through the COVID Experiences Survey from parents of children ages 5-12 years, administered using NORC's AmeriSpeak panel. Most parents reported satisfaction with supports (88.4%) and services (93.2%). Dissatisfaction with special education supports and therapeutic services was more common among parents whose children received supports/services virtually than in person (special educational supports: aOR=12.00, 95% CI [1.49-96.89], p=0.020; therapeutic services: aOR=15.76, 95% CI [1.01-245.40], p=0.049). These findings suggest opportunities to improve design and delivery of online special education supports and therapeutic services as well as emergency preparedness by considering the needs of students with disabilities and their families.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Spencer
- Division of Reproductive Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion; Division of Adolescent and School Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education
| | - Jorge V Verlenden
- Division of Adolescent and School Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Greta Kilmer
- Division of Population Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion; Division of Adolescent and School Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Sanjana Pampati
- Division of Adolescent and School Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Shamia Moore
- Division of Injury Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control; Division of Adolescent and School Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education
| | - Catherine N Rasberry
- Division of Adolescent and School Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Angelika H Claussen
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wiggins LD, Tian LH, Tinker SC, Yeargin-Allsopp M, DiGuiseppi CG, Nadler C, Powell PS, Moody EJ, Durkin MS, Fallin MD, Ryerson AB, Thierry JM, Robinson B, Pazol K. Remote Delivery of Allied and Behavioral Healthcare During COVID-19 for Children With Developmental Disabilities. JAACAP OPEN 2024; 2:36-44. [PMID: 38533351 PMCID: PMC10964929 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaacop.2023.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Objective Many children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities (DD) transitioned to telehealth services due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Our objectives were to describe reductions in allied and behavioral healthcare services and receipt of caregiver training to deliver services at home because of COVID-19 for children with ASD and other DD, and factors associated with worse response to remote delivery of services for children with ASD. Method Prior to the pandemic, children 2 to 5 years of age were enrolled in a multi-site case-control study and completed a developmental assessment. Caregivers completed questionnaires on child behavior problems and ASD symptoms. Children were classified as having ASD vs another DD based on standardized diagnostic measures. Subsequently, caregivers completed a survey during January to June 2021 to assess how COVID-19 affected children and families. Results Caregivers reported that most children with ASD and other DD had a decrease in service hours (50.0%-76.9% by service type) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Children with ASD were significantly more likely to experience reduced speech/language therapy than children with other DD. Receipt of caregiver training to deliver services at home ranged from 38.1% to 57.4% by service type. Among children with ASD, pre-pandemic problems with internalizing behaviors and social communication/interaction were associated with worse response to behavioral telehealth but no other common therapies. Conclusion Our study demonstrates the caregiver-reported impacts of COVID-19 on remote delivery of allied and behavioral healthcare services for children with ASD and other DD. Considerations for caregiver support and remote delivery of services are provided.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa D Wiggins
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Lin H Tian
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Sarah C Tinker
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Marshalyn Yeargin-Allsopp
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Carolyn G DiGuiseppi
- School of Medicine, University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Cy Nadler
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Health, Children's Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, Missouri
| | - Patrick S Powell
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Eric J Moody
- Institute for Disabilities, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming
| | - Maureen S Durkin
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | | | - A Blythe Ryerson
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - JoAnn M Thierry
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Britney Robinson
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Karen Pazol
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Pokoski OM, Crain H, DiGuiseppi C, Furnier SM, Moody EJ, Nadler C, Pazol K, Sanders J, Wiggins LD, Durkin MS. Economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on families of children with autism and other developmental disabilities. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1342504. [PMID: 38419902 PMCID: PMC10899320 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1342504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background To control the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), many jurisdictions throughout the world enacted public health measures that had vast socio-economic implications. In emergency situations, families of children with developmental disabilities (DDs), including autism, may experience increased difficulty accessing therapies, economic hardship, and caregiver stress, with the potential to exacerbate autism symptoms. Yet, limited research exists on the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on families of children with autism or another DD compared to families of children from the general population. Objectives To assess impact of the COVID-19 pandemic related to parental employment and economic difficulties in families of children with autism, another DD, and in the general population, considering potential modification by socioeconomic disadvantage before the pandemic and levels of child behavioral and emotional problems. Methods The Study to Explore Early Development (SEED) is a multi-site, multi-phase, case-control study of young children with autism or another DD as compared to a population comparison group (POP). During January-July 2021, a COVID-19 Impact Assessment Questionnaire was sent to eligible participants (n=1,789) who had enrolled in SEED Phase 3 from September 2017-March 2020. Parents completed a questionnaire on impacts of the pandemic in 2020 and completed the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) to measure behavioral and emotional health of their child during this time. Multiple logistic regression models were built for employment reduction, increased remote work, difficulty paying bills, or fear of losing their home. Covariates include group status (autism, DD, POP), household income at enrollment, child's race and ethnicity, and binary CBCL Total Problems T-score (<60 vs. ≥60). Unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. Results The study included 274 children with autism, 368 children with another DD, and 385 POP children. The mean age of 6.1 years (standard deviation, 0.8) at the COVID-19 Impact Assessment did not differ between study groups. Parents of children with autism were less likely to transition to remote work (aOR [95% CI] = 0.6 [0.4, 1.0]) and more likely to report difficulty paying bills during the pandemic (1.8 [1.2, 2.9]) relative to parents of POP children. Lower income was associated with greater employment reduction, difficulty paying bills, and fear of losing their home, but inversely associated with transitioning to remote work. Parents of non-Hispanic (NH) Black children experienced greater employment reduction compared to parents of NH White children (1.9 [1.1, 3.0]). Parents from racial and ethnic minority groups were more likely to experience difficulty paying bills and fear losing their home, relative to NH White parents. Caregivers of children with CBCL scores in the clinical range were more likely to fear losing their home (2.1 [1.3, 3.4]). Conclusion These findings suggest that families of children with autism, families of lower socio-economic status, and families of racial and ethnic minority groups experienced fewer work flexibilities and greater financial distress during the pandemic. Future research can be used to assess if these impacts are sustained over time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olivia M. Pokoski
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Hayley Crain
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Carolyn DiGuiseppi
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Sarah M. Furnier
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Eric J. Moody
- Wyoming Institute for Disabilities, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, United States
| | - Cy Nadler
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Health, Children’s Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, United States
| | - Karen Pazol
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Jessica Sanders
- Department of Pediatrics and Department of Neurology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Lisa D. Wiggins
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Maureen S. Durkin
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pottorff A, Liu E, Du M, Catacora A, Rosen R, McSweeney M. Assessment of families' experience with care integration within an aerodigestive program. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2024; 78:223-230. [PMID: 38374563 DOI: 10.1002/jpn3.12108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to assess if enrollment in a pediatric multidisciplinary aerodigestive program significantly impacted families' experiences with care integration. METHODS A previously validated 48-question Pediatric Integrated Care Survey (PICS) was administered in a cross-sectional manner to both new (new-ADC) and established (est-ADC) patients presenting for an outpatient Aerodigestive Center visit at Boston Children's Hospital. Survey results were grouped into the following five care coordination domains: (1) access to care, (2) care goal creation/planning, (3) family impact, (4) communication with health care providers, and (5) team functioning. Families were asked to rate their care integration experiences in the prior 12 months using yes/no and Likert-based questions. Comparisons were analyzed using logistic regression. Factor analysis was also performed. RESULTS Ninety patient families were surveyed: 54 (60%) est-ADC patients and 36 (40%) new-ADC patients. Est-ADC patients reported higher levels of experience with team functioning, provider awareness of prior testing, provider communication, and access to alternative methods of communication. Self-identified non-White patients reported lower satisfaction in team functioning and provider understanding of their child's long-term care plan. No significant differences in care integration experiences before and after the onset of the coronavirus pandemic were seen. CONCLUSIONS Patients enrolled in aerodigestive centers experienced improved care integration, most significantly in provider communication and team functioning. Despite these improvements, self-identified non-White families reported a lower care integration experience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Pottorff
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Enju Liu
- Institutional Centers for Clinical and Translational Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Maritha Du
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andrea Catacora
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rachel Rosen
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Maireade McSweeney
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Evangelou G, Adams SN. "Tremendous burdens often unveil enormous gifts": The experiences of South African caregivers implementing speech and language teletherapy for children with cerebral palsy during COVID-19. J Pediatr Rehabil Med 2024; 17:85-96. [PMID: 38251071 PMCID: PMC10977356 DOI: 10.3233/prm-220118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE In accordance with South Africa's restrictions to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, some speech-language pathologists (SLPs) attempted to engage in novice teletherapy regimes to ensure continuity of care for children with cerebral palsy (CP). This study aimed to explore the experiences of caregivers of children with CP implementing SLP teletherapy during COVID-19 in South Africa. The goal was to shed light on how these families can be better supported and how teletherapy practices can be adjusted for this population. METHODS This study employed a qualitative phenomenological research design using in-person and virtual semi-structured interviews with 18 purposively sampled participants with children with CP who received speech and language teletherapy during COVID-19. The data was evaluated using an inductive thematic analysis approach whereby themes elicited from the caregivers' narratives were analyzed. RESULTS Interviews (n = 18) unveiled the significant understanding caregivers gained by becoming integral and active stakeholders in the provision of teletherapy. Caregivers were able to meaningfully communicate and bond with their children with CP. However, caregivers also assumed the burden that teletherapy placed on them, as they had to renegotiate their role during the pandemic in order to provide routine teletherapy. CONCLUSION Findings indicated the need for person-centered SLP teletherapy interventions that utilize contextually and culturally responsive techniques and resources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Evangelou
- Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology, School of Human and Community Development, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Skye Nandi Adams
- Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology, School of Human and Community Development, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Holm ME, Kiviruusu O, Helenius J, Sainio P. Population-level changes in anxiety and depression and the unmet need for support at school among adolescents with and without disabilities, 2017-2021: The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Disabil Health J 2024; 17:101540. [PMID: 37821264 DOI: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2023.101540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescents' mental health problems increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, but little information is available on how adolescents with disabilities were affected. OBJECTIVE We investigated the population-level changes in depression and anxiety and the unmet need for support at school from social workers/psychologists, doctors/nurses, and teachers among adolescents with specific disabilities and those without disabilities before (2017-2019) and during (2021) the pandemic. METHODS We analyzed population-based cross-sectional data from the Finnish School Health Promotion study of lower secondary school students obtained in 2017 (n = 73,678), 2019 (n = 87,215), and 2021 (n = 91,560). Students with disabilities were classified into four groups based on self-reporting: disabilities only in mobility, cognition, sensory, or two or more domains. Regression models were applied to investigate population-level changes. RESULTS From 2017-2019 to 2021, anxiety and depression increased at the population level among all adolescents. The interaction analysis revealed that the increase was higher among adolescents with cognitive and mobility disabilities and lower among those with sensory disabilities compared to adolescents without disabilities. The increase in the prevalence of the unmet need for support was similar for those with and without disabilities, except for support from social workers/psychologists, where the unmet need was higher among those with mobility disabilities. CONCLUSION The COVID-19 pandemic had more detrimental effects on the mental health of adolescents with mobility and cognitive disabilities than those without disabilities. There is an urgent need for resources and targeted support to prevent anxiety and depression among adolescents with mobility and cognitive disabilities during crises.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marja Eliisa Holm
- The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland; Department of Public Health and Welfare, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, FI-00271 Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Olli Kiviruusu
- The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland; Department of Public Health and Welfare, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, FI-00271 Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Jenni Helenius
- The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland; Department of Public Health and Welfare, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, FI-00271 Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Päivi Sainio
- The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland; Department of Public Health and Welfare, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, FI-00271 Helsinki, Finland.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Pazol K, Tian LH, DiGuiseppi C, Durkin MS, Fallin MD, Moody EJ, Nadler C, Powell PS, Reyes N, Robinson B, Ryerson AB, Thierry JM, Tinker SC, Wiggins LD, Yeargin-Allsopp M. Health and Education Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic Among Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Other Developmental Disabilities. J Dev Behav Pediatr 2024; 45:e31-e38. [PMID: 38364085 PMCID: PMC10963045 DOI: 10.1097/dbp.0000000000001227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Understanding how the COVID-19 pandemic affected children with disabilities is essential for future public health emergencies. We compared children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with those with another developmental disability (DD) and from the general population (POP) regarding (1) missed or delayed appointments for regular health/dental services, immunizations, and specialty services; (2) reasons for difficulty accessing care; and (3) use of remote learning and school supports. METHOD Caregivers of children previously enrolled in the Study to Explore Early Development, a case-control study of children with ASD implemented during 2017 to 2020, were recontacted during January-June 2021 to learn about services during March-December 2020. Children were classified as ASD, DD, or POP during the initial study and were aged 3.4 to 7.5 years when their caregivers were recontacted during the pandemic. RESULTS Over half of all children missed or delayed regular health/dental appointments (58.4%-65.2%). More children in the ASD versus DD and POP groups missed or delayed specialty services (75.7%, 58.3%, and 22.8%, respectively) and reported difficulties obtaining care of any type because of issues using telehealth and difficulty wearing a mask. During school closures, a smaller proportion of children with ASD versus another DD were offered live online classes (84.3% vs 91.1%), while a larger proportion had disrupted individualized education programs (50.0% vs 36.2%). CONCLUSION Minimizing service disruptions for all children and ensuring continuity of specialty care for children with ASD is essential for future public health emergencies. Children may need additional services to compensate for disruptions during the pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karen Pazol
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Lin H. Tian
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Carolyn DiGuiseppi
- Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | | | | | - Eric J. Moody
- University of Wyoming Institute for Disabilities, Laramie, WY
| | - Cy Nadler
- Children’s Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO
| | - Patrick S. Powell
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Nuri Reyes
- Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Britney Robinson
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | | | - JoAnn M. Thierry
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Sarah C. Tinker
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Lisa D. Wiggins
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Marshalyn Yeargin-Allsopp
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Morgan S, Weir KA, Mulligan K, Jacobs S, Hilari K. Impact of COVID-19 on clinical practice of UK-based speech and language therapists working with school-aged children with neurodisability and oropharyngeal dysphagia: A survey. Child Care Health Dev 2024; 50:e13159. [PMID: 37555626 DOI: 10.1111/cch.13159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic and response changed clinical service delivery and practice for speech and language therapists (SLTs) in the United Kingdom. SLTs work with children with neurodisability regarding both difficulties with their communication and eating and drinking skills (oropharyngeal dysphagia). This survey aimed to specifically explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on SLT practice for school-aged children with dysphagia. METHODS UK-based SLTs working with school-aged children with neurodisability and oropharyngeal dysphagia were recruited to share their perceptions on the impact of COVID-19 on practice. Four questions focusing on COVID-19 impact were part of a larger online survey exploring SLT clinical practice regarding mealtime management of children with neurodisability and oropharyngeal dysphagia, which included demographic information, service delivery, assessment and intervention practices. COVID-19 impact questions were a mixture of multiple choice and free text responses. The survey was disseminated using professional networks and social media, between 14 May and 30 July 2021. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and qualitative content analysis. RESULTS One hundred and two participants answered at least one of the four COVID-19 questions. Eighty-two per cent of SLTs either agreed or strongly agreed that COVID-19 impacted on service delivery to children and families. Negative impacts on service delivery included school absences/closures, home visiting restrictions, families declining input and/or having barriers to telehealth use and the impact of mask wearing on interactions. Positive impacts included increased telehealth access and skills, increased contact with families and focus on children's eating and drinking function within the home environment. Participants aimed to maintain the increased contact with families alongside a hybrid service delivery approach of in-person and virtual appointments. CONCLUSIONS This survey provides novel information capturing SLT practice change across two waves of COVID-19 and return to in-person practice for UK children with neurodisability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sally Morgan
- Department of Language & Communication Science, City, University of London, London, UK
| | - Kelly A Weir
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University; Gold Coast Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Kathleen Mulligan
- City, University of London, East London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Katerina Hilari
- Department of Language & Communication Science, City, University of London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Hollis ND, Zhou T, Rice CE, Yeargin-Allsopp M, Cree RA, Singleton JA, Santibanez TA, Ryerson AB. Inequities in COVID-19 vaccination coverage for adolescents with and without disability, national immunization Survey-Child COVID module, July 22, 2021-February 26, 2022. Disabil Health J 2023; 16:101509. [PMID: 37558552 PMCID: PMC10961908 DOI: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2023.101509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Some people with disabilities are likely at increased risk of health impacts from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). OBJECTIVE To describe parent-reported COVID-19 vaccination status of adolescents (aged 13-17 years) and parental intent to get their child vaccinated, among adolescents with versus without disability. METHODS National Immunization Survey-Child COVID Module data from interviews conducted July 22, 2021-February 26, 2022, were analyzed to assess disability status and type and COVID-19 vaccination status for adolescents (n = 12,445). Prevalence estimates with 95% confidence intervals were calculated; T-tests were conducted. RESULTS A lower percentage of adolescents with disability received ≥1 dose of COVID-19 vaccine compared to adolescents without disability (52.5% vs. 58.6%), [those with cognition (50.8%) or not performing errands independently (49.5%) disabilities were significantly lower]; and a higher percentage of parents reported intent to definitely vaccinate (9.9% vs. 6.5%) and definitely not vaccinate (14.9% vs. 11.8%) their adolescent. Among the unvaccinated adolescents, parents of those with disability were more likely to report difficulty getting their child vaccinated (19.1% vs. 12.9%), inconvenient vaccination-site operating hours (7.6% vs. 3.9%), difficulty knowing where to get their child vaccinated (7.2% vs. 2.7%), and difficulty getting to vaccination sites (6.0% vs. 3.0%), than parents of those without disability. CONCLUSIONS Adolescents with disability had lower vaccination coverage compared to adolescents without disability. Parents of adolescents with disability reported higher intent to get their adolescents vaccinated, but among unvaccinated adolescents with disability, parents reported greater difficulty in accessing COVID-19 vaccines. Findings highlight the need for prioritized outreach to increase COVID-19 vaccination for this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- NaTasha D Hollis
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA; Commissioned Corps, U.S. Public Health Service, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Tianyi Zhou
- Immunization Services Division, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA; Leidos, Inc. Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Catherine E Rice
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Marshalyn Yeargin-Allsopp
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Robyn A Cree
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - James A Singleton
- Immunization Services Division, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Tammy A Santibanez
- Immunization Services Division, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - A Blythe Ryerson
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Northrup RA, Jones E, Singh V, Holingue C, Meck M, Gurnett CA, van Stone M, Kalb LG. Caregiver perspectives on the continued impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children with intellectual/developmental disabilities. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1196275. [PMID: 37609365 PMCID: PMC10440736 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1196275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted caregivers, especially those raising a child with an intellectual/developmental disability (IDD). While research has shown substantial disruption to the family, school, and occupational lives of the IDD community, little is known about the long-term impacts of COVID-19. To address this question, 249 caregivers were surveyed via an online questionnaire, between April and August of 2022 (more than 2 years into the pandemic) about potential impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on their child's access to health- and school-based therapeutic services, caregiver mental health, and family life. The majority of caregivers reported disruptions in access to and quality of school-based therapeutic services for their child as well as a reduction in educational accommodations in the 2021-2022 academic year. Nearly half of caregivers reported feeling anxious and almost a quarter reported feeling depressed for the majority of their days. More than half of respondents reported decreased social support, and one-fifth reported employment disruptions and decreased access to food. These findings suggest that families of children with IDD are still experiencing ongoing negative impacts of the pandemic, emphasizing the critical need for continued support in the wake of the initial and more obvious disruptions caused by the COVID-19 outbreak.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R. A. Northrup
- Department of Neuropsychology, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - E. Jones
- Information Systems Department, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - V. Singh
- Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - C. Holingue
- Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - M. Meck
- Maryland Center for Developmental Disabilities, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - C. A. Gurnett
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - M. van Stone
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Maryland Center for Developmental Disabilities, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - L. G. Kalb
- Department of Neuropsychology, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Martin AM, McIntyre LL, Neece C. Examining the Impact of COVID-19 on Education and Service Access for Diverse Families of Young Children With and Without Developmental Delays. FAMILY JOURNAL (ALEXANDRIA, VA.) 2023; 31:417-425. [PMID: 38602907 PMCID: PMC10015280 DOI: 10.1177/10664807231163261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
The rapid transition to virtual learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic created unprecedented challenges that significantly impacted caregivers of young children, particularly those with developmental delays and children from non-English speaking households (Valicenti-McDermott et al., 2022). The current study aims to describe caregivers' concerns regarding the COVID-19 pandemic in general and specific educational concerns following school closures, and to determine whether their concerns varied as a function of whether the child had a developmental delay or the parent's ethnicity. Results revealed that caregivers of children with DD endorsed a greater number of general and education-specific COVID-19 concerns compared to caregivers of TD children, and non-Latinx caregivers of children with DD reported more general COVID-19 concerns compared to Latinx caregivers of children with DD. With respect to education-specific concerns, caregivers of children with DD reported a greater impact from the loss and/or delay of services and reported feeling significantly less capable of conducting educational activities in the home compared to caregivers of TD children. However, almost all caregivers in the study endorsed some level of stress from remote instruction. These findings suggest there is a specific need for attention to caregiver mental health and an examination of long-term educational outcomes resulting from extended school closures during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Cameron Neece
- Department of Psychology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Da Costa IGR, Brugnaro BH, Lima CRG, Kraus de Camargo O, Fumincelli L, Pavão SL, Rocha NACF. Perceived Social Support and Quality of Life of Children with and without Developmental Disabilities and Their Caregivers during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Brazil: A Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4449. [PMID: 36901463 PMCID: PMC10001514 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20054449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social support and Quality of life (QoL) are important aspects of life and should be explored during the specific scenario of the pandemic. AIMS (i) to compare the perceived social support (PSS) in caregivers and the domains of QoL of the caregiver and the child with developmental disabilities (DD) and typical development (TD); (ii) to verify the existence of the association, in each group, between the PSS, and the domain of QoL of the caregiver and the child. METHODS AND PROCEDURES 52 caregivers of children with DD and 34 with TD participated remotely. We assessed PSS (Social Support Scale), children's QoL (PedsQL-4.0-parent proxy) and caregivers' QoL (PedsQL-Family Impact Module). The groups were compared for the outcomes using the Mann-Whitney test, and Spearman's test evaluated the correlation between the PSS and the QoL (child and caregiver) in each of the groups. OUTCOMES AND RESULTS There was no difference between groups for PSS. Children with DD presented lower values in PedsQL total, psychosocial health, physical health, social activities, and school activity. Caregivers of children with TD presented lower values in PedsQL family total, physical capacity, emotional aspect, social aspect, daily activities, and higher value in communication. In the DD group, we found a positive relationship between PSS with child: Psychosocial Health (r = 0.350) and Emotional Aspect (r = 0.380), and with family: Total (r = 0.562), Physical Capacity (r = 0.402), Emotional Aspect (r = 0.492), Social Aspect (r = 0.606), Communication (r = 0.535), Concern (r = 0.303), Daily Activities (r = 0.394) and Family Relationships (r = 0.369). In the TD group, we found that PSS was positively associated with Family: Social Aspect (r = 0.472) and Communication (r = 0.431). CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS During the COVID-19 pandemic, despite both groups presenting similar PSS, there are important differences in QoL between them. For both groups, greater levels of perceived social support are associated with greater caregiver-reported in some domains of the child's and caregiver's QoL. These associations are more numerous, especially for the families of children with DD. This study provides a unique view into the relationships between perceived social support and QoL during the "natural experiment" of living through a pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Gansella Rocha Da Costa
- Child Development Analysis Laboratory (LADI), Department of Physical Therapy, Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), São Carlos 13565-905, SP, Brazil
| | - Beatriz Helena Brugnaro
- Child Development Analysis Laboratory (LADI), Department of Physical Therapy, Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), São Carlos 13565-905, SP, Brazil
| | - Camila Resende Gâmbaro Lima
- Child Development Analysis Laboratory (LADI), Department of Physical Therapy, Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), São Carlos 13565-905, SP, Brazil
| | - Olaf Kraus de Camargo
- CanChild, Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 1C7, Canada
| | - Lais Fumincelli
- Department of Nursing, Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), São Carlos 13565-905, SP, Brazil
| | - Silvia Letícia Pavão
- Department of Prevention and Rehabilitation in Physical Therapy, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 80060-000, PR, Brazil
| | - Nelci Adriana Cicuto Ferreira Rocha
- Child Development Analysis Laboratory (LADI), Department of Physical Therapy, Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), São Carlos 13565-905, SP, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
The Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Therapy Utilization Among Racially/Ethnically and Socio-Economically Diverse Autistic Children. J Autism Dev Disord 2023; 53:918-933. [PMID: 36757541 PMCID: PMC9909136 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-023-05905-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of current study was to evaluate change in hours of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy utilization for autistic children during the year prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the first three months of the pandemic (crisis phase), and the following 9 months of the pandemic (mitigation phase). Additionally, this study aimed to evaluate if change in therapy utilization differed based on child race, ethnicity, and primary payer of services. Finally, we aimed to identify potential mechanisms of ABA therapy disruption by interpreting findings using an extended version of Donabedian's structure-process-outcome model. METHODS Retrospective clinical data on client demographics and therapy utilization (n = 283) were collected from ABA clinics in California and analyzed with four piecewise growth multi-level models. RESULTS We found that therapy utilization dropped during the first three months of the pandemic (-10.65 h/month; p < .001) and increased during the following 9 months (2.39 h/month; p < .001). Moderator analyses revelated that Asian, Non-Latinx and school-district funded children had significantly different trajectories of change in therapy utilization compared to white, non-Latinx participants and private insurance funded participants, respectively. CONCLUSION Findings suggest that utilization of ABA therapy was disrupted for a full year following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and that child race/ethnicity and primary payer influenced the degree to which autistic children were impacted by service disruption. These findings have implications for autistic children who lost therapy access during key developmental periods and for the ABA care delivery system.
Collapse
|
16
|
Merrick H, Driver H, Main C, Kenny RPW, Richmond C, Allard A, Bola K, Morris C, Parr JR, Pearson F, Pennington L. Impacts of health care service changes implemented due to COVID-19 on children and young people with long-term disability: A mapping review. Dev Med Child Neurol 2023. [PMID: 36649197 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
AIM To identify the research on childhood disability service adaptations and their impact on children and young people with long-term disability during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD A mapping review was undertaken. We searched the World Health Organization Global COVID-19 database using the search terms 'children', 'chronic/disabling conditions', and 'services/therapies'. Eligible papers reported service changes for children (0-19 years) with long-term disability in any geographical or clinical setting between 1st January 2020 and 26th January 2022. Papers were charted across the effective practice and organization of care taxonomy of health system interventions and were narratively synthesized; an interactive map was produced. RESULTS Reduction of face-to-face care and usual provision had a huge impact on children and families. Adoption of telehealth provided continuity for the care and management of some conditions. There was limited evidence of changes to mental health services, transitions of care, social care, or child-reported satisfaction or acceptability of service changes. INTERPRETATION The long-term impacts of service change during the pandemic need full evaluation. However, widespread disruption seems to have had a profound impact on child and carer health and well-being. Service recovery needs to be specific to the individual needs of children with a disability and their families. This should be done through coproduction to ensure that service changes meet needs and are accessible and equitable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Merrick
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Helen Driver
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Chloe Main
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Ryan P W Kenny
- Evidence Synthesis Group, Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Catherine Richmond
- Evidence Synthesis Group, Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | | | - Christopher Morris
- Peninsula Childhood Disability Research Unit, University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Jeremy R Parr
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.,Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.,Cumbria Northumberland Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Fiona Pearson
- Evidence Synthesis Group, Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Lindsay Pennington
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Michaud M, Dietz IC. The effects of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on children and youth with special health care needs. Front Pediatr 2023; 10:1007770. [PMID: 36683792 PMCID: PMC9853039 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.1007770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
This article seeks to review the current knowledge of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the health effects for children and youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN). COVID-19, an infectious disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), became a major pandemic in 2020. Recognition of the disease could be difficult, as symptoms in children are at times different than adults and can mimic other common childhood viral infections. Children with underlying medical conditions did make up a higher proportion of those hospitalized, but also were affected in other ways including loss of nursing support, missed education and rehabilitative services, and increased stress for themselves and their families, affecting mental health in this vulnerable population. This review seeks to address what is currently known about the overall effects on CYSHCN and their families, and identify gaps in research, including the implementation of health care systems, and possible suggestions for change in the educational and community supports for this group of individuals. Ongoing analysis of large national and international data sets, as well as smaller reports based on specific congenital anomaly, genetics disease, and acquired childhood illness, and then attention to local resources and family resilience is still necessary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mel Michaud
- School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, The MetroHealth System, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Irene Cihon Dietz
- Department of Pediatrics, The MetroHealth System, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Case Medical Center, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Pritchard L. Reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic and moving forward: Make it Matter. Dev Med Child Neurol 2022; 64:1050. [PMID: 35908165 PMCID: PMC9353382 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
19
|
Balton S, Vallabhjee AL, Pillay SC. When uncertainty becomes the norm: The Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital’s Speech Therapy and Audiology Department’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION DISORDERS 2022; 69:e1-e11. [PMID: 36073072 PMCID: PMC9452927 DOI: 10.4102/sajcd.v69i2.913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In March 2020 the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) a pandemic. Management of this pandemic had significant implications for clinical departments across the world. Healthcare systems were urgently required to reorganise and redesign patient care as well as repurpose staff. Objectives We will share the lived experience of our response as speech therapy and audiology (STA) clinicians to the COVID-19 pandemic. Method This study adopted an autoethnographic approach within Bronfenbrenner’s bioecological model to describe STA clinicians’ response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Results Adaptations to practice were made to continue service provision whilst adhering to COVID-19 regulations. We assisted in other areas to meet the immediate needs of the hospital. Service delivery strategies consisted of a review of clinical and quality assurance protocols. We developed a telehealth service package which included a hybrid approach, within a context of digital poverty. We created resources to ensure continuity of care. Collaboration within our systems facilitated innovative solutions. Mental health and well-being of staff members were key to the response developed. Conclusion South African healthcare systems’ inequalities were highlighted by the pandemic. The response showed that the needs of vulnerable populations were not accounted for when developing this public health response. Lessons learnt included the importance of adaptability, becoming comfortable with uncertainty and maintaining open and transparent communication. Consultation and collaboration within various levels of our healthcare system were critical in responding to the needs of patients. Commitment to compassionate leadership and staff well-being were crucial.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sadna Balton
- Department of Speech Therapy and Audiology, Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Johannesburg.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Turk MA, Mitra M. Continued need for disability competence in health care. Disabil Health J 2022; 15:101310. [DOI: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2022.101310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
|