Children's Hospital Los Angeles Program
Location:
Los Angeles, CASpecialty:
Developmental-behavioral pediatricsACGME Code:
3360531044The Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics program at Children's Hospital Los Angeles is dedicated to addressing the intricate medical and psychosocial aspects of developmental and behavioral issues faced by children. The program emphasizes a family-centered approach, understanding that the well-being of the child is significantly influenced by their family environment. The team of pediatricians employs various strategies to advocate for patients, which include coordinating early intervention therapies, collaborating with educational and developmental care agencies, and engaging with schools to support individual educational needs.
Developmental-behavioral pediatricians (DBPs) represent a specialized field equipped with comprehensive training and board certification from the American Board of Pediatrics in both developmental-behavioral and general pediatrics. They are trained to navigate the complex terrain of developmental disorders such as learning disabilities, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder, and other behavioral problems. Their roles encompass several vital functions:
Assessment and Diagnosis
DBPs specialize in the assessment and diagnosis of a range of developmental and behavioral disorders. This process involves evaluating children's cognitive, emotional, social, and behavioral skills through various standardized tests and observational techniques. Attention is given to conditions like autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, dyslexia, and other learning-related issues, ensuring a thorough and accurate diagnosis 1.
Treatment Planning
In addition to assessment, DBPs develop tailored treatment plans that may integrate medication management, behavioral therapies, and collaborations with therapists and schools to foster the child's development. These plans are designed to provide holistic support concerning the child's unique needs.
Family Support and Education
Education and support for families are pivotal. DBPs play a crucial role in providing guidance and education, which helps families navigate and understand their child's conditions, empowering them to provide effective support 1.
Collaboration with Specialists
DBPs work in multidisciplinary teams that include child psychologists, speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, and educators, promoting a holistic approach to the care of children with developmental challenges. The collaboration ensures a comprehensive understanding and management of each child's needs.
Psychological and Occupational Therapy
Psychologists within the program conduct extensive evaluations focusing on various behavioral aspects of the child's development and provide therapeutic interventions as necessary. Similarly, occupational therapists assess functional abilities, working on enhancing skills crucial for daily living.
Research Contributions
The program underscores the importance of research in advancing pediatric behavioral health care. Faculty members engage in significant research activities, including clinical trials and epidemiological studies, focusing on domains such as autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, obesity, and developmental disabilities. The research output is frequently shared at national meetings and in peer-reviewed publications, infusing the program with innovative practices aimed at enhancing child health outcomes 1.
Programs and Services
The Behavioral Health Institute at Children's Hospital Los Angeles provides specialized programs that cater to various developmental and behavioral needs:
- Autism and Developmental Disabilities Center: Offers multispecialty assessments and follow-up care, integrating inputs from developmental-behavioral pediatricians, psychologists, and therapists.
- Newborn Follow-Up Program: This program aims to monitor and assess infants at high risk for developmental issues post-NICU care.
- Community Behavioral Health Program: Serves a wide age range, providing necessary assessments and interventions for children from birth through adolescence.
Training and Fellowships
The Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics Fellowship is a comprehensive three-year ACGME-accredited program. It not only emphasizes clinical training but also involves research and leadership development in the field of pediatric behavioral health. In collaboration with the California Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (CA-LEND) Program, the fellowship aspires to create leaders in maternal and child health—preparing them to contribute effectively to families with neurodevelopmental disabilities 1.
Visa Support and Competitiveness
The program offers visa sponsorship options for international medical graduates, primarily in securing J-1 visas, which are often required for fellowships in the U.S. The program tends to be highly competitive with an emphasis on clinical excellence, though it is considered friendly towards IMG candidates. Specific application requirements may include a recent year of graduation and limitations on the number of failed STEP exams, ensuring that applicants meet rigorous medical competencies.
Website
Director
Douglas Vanderbilt, MD, MBA, MSDBP Fellowship Director; Professor of Clinical Pediatrics (Educational Scholar) Appointed Since April 2008Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
10hrsFirst Year Salary:
$84,028First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.3XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Los Angeles, CA
Housing - Rental Prices
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Living in Los Angeles, CA
- Crime rate and safety: Los Angeles has a moderate crime rate with certain neighborhoods having higher crime rates than others. It's recommended to research and choose a safe area to live in.
- Fun activities: Los Angeles is known for its diverse entertainment options, such as Hollywood attractions, beautiful beaches, hiking trails, museums, and vibrant nightlife.
- Climate: Los Angeles has a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. It is generally sunny throughout the year.
- Races and population: Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures with a diverse population representing various races and ethnicities.
- Education: Los Angeles is home to several prestigious universities and colleges, offering a wide range of educational opportunities.
- Cost of living: The cost of living in Los Angeles is relatively high compared to other cities in the U.S., especially when it comes to housing and transportation.
- Proximity to bigger cities: Nearby bigger cities include San Diego (about 2-3 hours drive) and San Francisco (about 6-7 hours drive), offering additional urban experiences.
- Pros: Exciting cultural opportunities, diverse culinary experiences, access to beautiful beaches, great weather, and potential networking opportunities in the entertainment industry.
- Cons: High cost of living, traffic congestion, air pollution, and housing affordability challenges.