Limitations
Limitations of this project include the short time period in which it was conducted as well as the size of the study sample. Provider work schedules also caused some challenges with arranging the lunch and learn educational sessions and completing independent review of materials on the subject. This project focused on a primarily African American, predominately Medicaid population. Within urban and/or underserved populations, there may be other demographic distributions thus limiting the generalizability of these findings.
Summary
In summary, this project attempted to improve provider confidence in management of ADHD and standardize assessment practices of one urban pediatric clinic. At the project’s conclusion there were subjective improvements in provider confidence. Ongoing opportunities for continuing education on management of mental health diagnoses for primary care providers should persevere. This project also highlights the persistent problem of patient follow-up for behavior concerns. Further exploration of challenges with attendance at follow-up appointments including collaboration with community and academic resources is needed to help determine best practices for ADHD management in disadvantaged communities.
Corresponding author: Jaytoya C. Manget, DNP, MSPH, FNP, jmanget@childrensnational.org.
Financial disclosures: None.