Developmental screening : predictors of follow-up adherence in primary health care
Loading...
Date
Authors
Schoeman, Joanne Christine
Swanepoel, De Wet
Van der Linde, Jeannie
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Makerere University Medical School
Abstract
BACKGROUND : The importance of early identification for infants and young children with developmental delays is well established.
Poor follow-up on referrals, however, undermines the effectiveness of early intervention programmes.
OBJECTIVES : To identify factors, including text message reminders, that influence follow-up adherence for early intervention after
developmental screening in primary health care. A secondary objective surveyed reasons for follow-up default.
METHODS : The PEDS tools were used to screen 247 high-risk children. A risk assessment questionnaire was completed with
caregivers whose children were referred for speech-language and/or occupational therapy (n=106, 43%). A quasi-experimental
correlational study was employed to identify risk factors for defaulting on appointments. A thematic analysis of telephonic interviews
was also employed to determine reasons for follow-up defaults.
RESULTS : Follow-up adherence was 17%. Participants who were never married, divorced or widowed were 2.88 times more likely
to attend a follow-up appointment than those who were married or living together (95%, CI 0.97-8.63). Text message reminders
did not improve follow-up. More than half (58%) of participants who defaulted on appontments could be reached for telephonic
interviews. Interviews showed that 87% of participants were unconcerned about their child’s development. Other reasons for
defaulting were employment, logistical issues, other responsibilities and forgetfulness.
CONCLUSION : Follow-up adherence for early intervention services following a positive primary health care screen was poor. Increased
awareness and education regarding the importance of development for educational success is needed.
Description
Keywords
Developmental screening, Follow-up return rate, Occupational therapy, PEDS Tools, Primary health care (PHC), Speech-language therapy, Text message reminders
Sustainable Development Goals
Citation
Schoeman J.C., Swanepoel D.W., Van der Linde J. Developmental screening: predictors of follow-up adherence in primary health care. African Health Sciences. 2017;17(1): 52-61. https://dx.DOI.org/10.4314/ahs.v17i1.8.