DHSS Press Release

MEDIA BRIEFING ADVISORY

WHAT:	Press conference and demonstration of Parents’ Evaluation of Developmental Status (PEDs) online, a new developmental screening tool for parents and healthcare providers. Parents can use the PEDS screening tool in the privacy of their own home to help identify potential developmental issues with their child. Medical providers can also use the tool to screen their patients and work closely with the parents during well child visits to address behavioral and developmental issues. Early screening is vital. According to the CDC, children with autism identified early and enrolled in early intervention programs show significant improvements in their language, cognitive, social, and motor skills, as well as in their future educational placement.
WHO:	Lt. Governor Matt Denn Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH)
WHEN:	May 9, 2012 at 11 a.m.
WHERE:	The Pediatric & Adolescent Center 424 Mulberry St. Milton, DE 19968

Directions:

• From State Route 1, turn onto SR-5 / Union St Ext, heading toward Milton. (Travelers from the north will be turning right onto SR-5 / Union Street Extended.)
• Go 3.0 miles.
• Turn right onto Clifton St.
• Go 0.1 miles.
• Turn right onto Mulberry St / CR-197.
• Go 227 feet and arrive at 424 Mulberry St , Milton, DE 19968.
• The last intersection is Clifton Street. If you reach Mainsail Drive, you’ve gone too far.

SPEAKERS (all confirmed):

• The Honorable Matt Denn, Lieutenant Governor
• DPH Director Karyl T. Rattay, MD, MS
• John J. Ludwicki, MD, FAAP, pediatrician, The Pediatric & Adolescent Center
• A parent of an infant at Dr. Ludwicki’s practice

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.