Checklists provide no validated criteria for referrals, and have unknown reliability. Validated and standardized tools carry the burden of proof that informal measures lack. We would never select tools for blood lead or other medical screens with questionable or unknown levels of accuracy. Summary Developmental and Behavioral screening is a well-developed technology. These instruments are superior to informal methods that are now being used in many offices.
Many instruments are also available in Spanish, and some in other languages.
We have listed a number of valid and reliable screening instruments that are suitable for office use. We are planning an online discussion group for screening along the lines of the successful DBP Discussion List, with CME credit available. For more information, send email to Henry L. Shapiro, M.D. or write to the address at the end of this newsletter. More information about individual screening tests is available online on the Pediatric Development and Behavior Homepage.