A musculoskeletal outreach screening, treatment, and education program for urban minority children

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Abstract
Purpose. A hospital‐based outreach program was initiated to screen minority children in medically underserved areas of New York City for musculoskeletal diseases. We examine the number of such diseases in this population, and evaluate the program's success to facilitate referral and follow‐up of children with referral conditions. Methods. Screenings were conducted at schools and day‐care centers. Children requiringfurther evaluation were referred to the sponsoring hospital, a major referral center for musculoskeletal diseases. Bilingual educational strategies, transportation reimbursement, and coverage for uninsured children were used to foster participation and increase follow‐up. Results. A total of 2,523 children were screened, 168 (6.7%) of whom were referred forone of 45 different musculoskeletal disorders, including scoliosis and back problems, foot problems, in‐ and out‐toeing, knee or hip pain, and problems of joint range of motion. Sixtyseven percent of those referred had a follow‐up medical consultation. Conclusions. A substantial proportion of urban minority children have previously undiagnosed musculoskeletal disorders that, if left untreated, have the potential to lead to significant disability in later life. Targeted screening programs can be effective in identifying such disorders, and providing an apportunity for early diagnosis, treatment, and education.