This is a very effective way to deal with this problem, Janet. I like your approach to helping families learn the vocabulary so that they can discuss their concerns and observations with their doctor. It makes such a big difference to be able to speak (and understand) the same language. I once heard a nurse practitioner say that it can be challenging to diagnose something (like autism in this case) when she just sees a child for 10 min and usually at a sick visit. Another physician said that some diagnoses are best made across time so it’s okay to do some waiting. It’s a tricky line to walk, though, to wait long enough but not too long. I think the best approach is to build that partnership with physicians and support families using the strategies you describe.

Usually I don’t follow up on issues that the parent doesn’t bring to the discussion (that I am concerned about) until we have a little trust in our relationship.

I catch lots of things the parents say the MD didn’t, esp. around feeding safety. I typically respond that the MD gets about 15 minutes with the client about every 6-months or when the priority is on a specific illness. On the other hand, I may see the client for 60-minutes 20 to 24 times in 6-months. My approach is dependent on the parent’s comfort with medical vocabulary and in “telling” an MD something.

Part of what I do is help the parent notice anomalies and help them learn the vocabulary. The parents sometimes don’t fully comprehend what the MD says.

I could also submit a report of my observations for MDs that have such a preference, but I prefer the parents learn to feel comfortable sharing their concerns for their child directly with all professionals. This is inline with the goal of supporting parents to become the primary interventionist and advocate for their child.

My hope my approach is sensitive to the parent’s comfort with medical vocabulary and in “telling” an MD something.