Michigan family physicians can get free training in standardized developmental screening for young children as well as CME credits thanks to a new partnership between MAFP and the Michigan Department of Community Health.
As part of a national effort to increase the screening rates to identify children with potential developmental delays or disabilities, the MDCH has received funding from the Early Childhood Investment Corporation to help train family physicians and pediatricians to better identify children with potential issues and incorporate this important work into their practices.
“We’re actively seeking family physicians who would like to be trained in the process of using standardized screening tools to identify potential developmental delays,” said Tiffany Kostelec, project coordinator at MDCH. “Our goal is to increase the number of children who are appropriately identified — and get the kids and their families access to the help they need.”
The program costs of the training, kits, follow-up assistance and CME credit are covered by the funding received by MDCH — with no cost to the physician or practice.
Family physicians who sign up for the program will find a wealth of tools and services at their disposal:
- Two research-based screening kits with unlimited use for practices: the ASQ-3™ and ASQ: SE.
- Staff training on implementation, coding and billing for submission to insurance companies.
- Personalized technical assistance and follow up.
- Personal advice from physicians who have previously been trained.
“We’re really pleased with the two screening kits selected for this program,” said Kostelec. “They’re well-researched, reliable and valid. They were chosen for that as well as their ease of use for the physician and practice members.”
Developmental delays aren’t always picked up with general developmental observation or surveillance, Kostelec noted. By implementing standardized screening for children, MDCH hopes to increase the early identification of children with potential developmental or social-emotional issues and connect children and families to appropriate resources.
Family physicians interested in signing up for the program are encouraged to contact Tiffany Kostelec at MDCH at 517-335-4663 or kostelect@michigan.gov.


