Urban Community Healthcare Center Launches New Program to Address Racial/Economic Disparities in Pediatric Developmental Screenings

BOSTON, July 18, 2024 (Newswire.com) - Recent studies highlight stark inequities in early childhood intervention referrals: White children are frequently referred before developmental screening, whereas Black children often receive referrals only after a positive screening. Delayed access to services for non-White children increases the risk of long-term impairment, particularly in low-income or minority groups.

Whittier Street Health Center is proud to announce the launch of a groundbreaking community-based developmental screening program aimed at addressing these disparities in healthcare access among underserved pediatric patients. The initiative will provide essential early detection and intervention services directly within the communities that need them most, ensuring every child has the opportunity for healthy development and growth.

To help lead this program, WHSC is also pleased to announce the addition of Dr. Michael Oanea to its pediatric team. Oanea will play a pivotal role at WSHC in addressing these disparities as early intervention has been consistently linked to improved lifetime outcomes for children with developmental issues. Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDs), such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), often present during early development and can persist into adulthood if not properly diagnosed and managed.

"Launching community-based developmental screenings is a critical step in addressing the disparities in healthcare access that many minority and low-income families face. By bringing these services directly to the communities that need them, Whittier is making a tangible difference in the lives of these children and their families,” said Oanea.

"In launching this critical initiative, Whittier recognizes the profound need to address healthcare disparities among our most vulnerable communities,” said Frederica Williams, WSHC President and CEO. “We are proud to partner with Dr. Oanea as we pioneer a community-based approach to pediatric developmental screenings at Whittier. By bringing essential services directly to those in need, we aim to not only detect developmental issues early on but ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive."

Oanea is deeply committed to enhancing access to pediatric developmental screenings for the diverse patient populations served by WHSC. After earning his degree in genetics, Oanea attended medical school at the University of Oklahoma. He completed his pediatrics training at Stony Brook University, NY, followed by a specialized program in neurodevelopmental disabilities at Boston Children's Hospital.

This new program at WSHC aims to provide better universal surveillance for developmental delays and increased access to early intervention, helping bridge the gap in healthcare disparities for our community's children.

Source: Whittier Street Health Center