Abstract
The objective of this article is to describe the experience of pediatric psychologists in providing psychological testing and assessment services for patients referred via the International Medicine Program at Nemours Children’s Health System/A. I. DuPont Hospital for Children in Wilmington, Delaware. A brief history of the development of these services, information regarding the types of patients served by this program, and an overview of the process designed in collaboration with the International Medicine Program is provided as a guide for implementation at other institutions. Rates of referrals have increased over the time the department has been accepting referrals for international patients. In 2017, 15% of the total referrals that the International Medicine Program received regarding services at the hospital were for psychological testing. Over 90% of referrals resulted in a scheduled appointment. Overall, the program has resulted in positive feedback from families as well as providers who see patients for testing. Key to the program’s success appears to be the relationships with stakeholders both within and outside of the hospital system. The specific benefits for training of psychology predoctoral interns and postdoctoral fellows are highlighted.
Implications for Impact Statement
This article describes an interdisciplinary collaboration in a pediatric hospital setting to develop a psychological testing and assessment service for international patients seeking care in the United States. The article highlights the specific resources of the relevant departments and features of the program that have facilitated programmatic growth, for example, a strong partnership with the International Medicine office, a streamlined workflow, and a condensed evaluation process for families. Finally, it reviews the challenges that have been encountered and offers suggestions for other hospitals looking to develop such programs.
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