Developmental Care Overview
The NICU Neurodevelopmental Clinic provides evaluation of the growth and development of infants and young children who are at risk for neurologic problems or developmental delays because of premature birth, low birth weight or other problems at birth. It’s important for early intervention if there is a slight risk that your child may be exposed to potential neurodevelopmental disabilities.
The clinic sees children who are cared for in the neonatal intensive care units at Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego, Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla, Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas, Scripps Mercy Hospital, Scripps Mercy Chula Vista, Palomar Medical Center, Rancho Springs Medical Center and other participating hospitals.
Most insurance will cover the cost of a child’s appointment. If authorization is required, the team works with the child’s pediatrician or insurance to obtain it.
Developmental-Behavioral Pediatric Evaluations
Behavioral health evaluations are needed to ensure that your child grows and develops properly. By monitoring your child’s health, development, and giving guidance and referrals as needed, we can help your infant reach his or her full developmental potential. Early diagnosis and treatment of developmental delays may prevent or lessen long-term problems associated with prematurity and serious newborn illness.
Special examinations are performed by a pediatric nurse practitioner or a clinical psychologist to evaluate how your baby is growing, changing, learning and developing.
We evaluate:
- Neuromotor function (muscle strength or weakness)
- Growth and nutrition (physical growth)
- Language development (ability to listen and talk)
- Social interaction (ability to interact with others)
- Developmental milestones (ability to achieve developmental stages)
The complete evaluation takes about 1 ½ to 2 hours, and the results are discussed with you. The evaluation provides an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have about your child’s development. A copy of the evaluation report is also sent to your child’s primary care pediatrician.
For more information, click on the links below.