NCJ Number
200974
Date Published
2003
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This chapter provides models for hospital SCAN (suspected child abuse and neglect) teams, which are multidisciplinary teams involved in the identification and treatment of child victimization.
Abstract
Tasks of SCAN teams include, but are not limited to, case review of all child abuse and neglect reports; the review of medical reports for evaluation, follow-up, and referrals; coordination of treatment planning; maintaining a central log of cases and/or a data system; preparing an annual summary report; and providing training and education. Hospital-based multidisciplinary teams typically have a core group of professionals such as physicians, nurses, social workers, child development and mental health specialists, and psychiatrists. Team members have specialized training and expertise in the recognition of child maltreatment, assessment and evaluation, the mechanics of reporting and public agency response, and community resources for treatment and follow-up. Other specialists may be consulted as needed, such as dentists, radiologists, and ophthalmologists. The hospital-based SCAN team program may include the availability of 24-hour consultation to hospital staff. The element that distinguishes the tertiary SCAN team is the inclusion of public agencies in team membership. Representatives from law enforcement, child protective services, and the public health department are core team members. Such a team becomes involved in investigations and case management. In profiling new programs, the chapter describes the development of Child Protection Centers and Multidisciplinary Interview Teams. 3 references