Conference at Children’s Hospital
Dr. Deborah Fein of the University of Connecticut was the keynote speaker at the Snyder Conference at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin on November 21st, 2008. The day started with pediatric grand rounds, which was filled to standing room only. Dr. Fein addressed the crowd about the importance of screening toddlers for autism spectrum disorders, as is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Dr. Fein is one of the developers of the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (MCHAT).
After the grand rounds, the Snyder Conference continued with input from pediatricians on the challenges of adding another screening requirement to busy pediatric practices, the fears some families face regarding autism and vaccinations, and the differences in providing care in urban and suburban practices. Other speakers included Dr. Richard Barthel from the Medical College of Wisconsin, Nissan Bar-Lev from CESA #7, Bill Murray and Julie Bryda from the state Department of Health and Family Services, and Emily Levine from the Autism Society of Southeastern Wisconsin. At the end of the conference, Dr. Fein discussed research showing how some children make substantial progress through ABA therapy.
The ASSEW sponsored Dr. Fein’s visit to Milwaukee, using funds raised at Dylan’s Run. We are grateful to Dr. Richard Barthel and the planning team at Children’s Hospital for arranging this conference, bringing quality autism information to Southeastern Wisconsin.
Tags: Autism Screening, Children's Hospital, Deborah Fein, dylan's run