Scope of the problem
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Click here to view the Child Protection Program Brochure |
An estimated one-and-a-half to two million children are abused and/or neglected in the United States each year. Approximately 3,000 children die each year at the hands of a caretaker. Child maltreatment occurs in all segments of our society and crosses all socioeconomic and cultural lines. It is, therefore, an important aspect of pediatrics and must be included in a diagnosis when evaluating trauma, illness of unknown etiology, and conflicting or inconsistent histories.
Reporting guidelines
Physicians, social workers, nurses, and other medical personnel are among those mandated by law to report all cases of suspected abuse or neglect. Recent changes in Missouri law require healthcare providers to report all cases of abuse or neglect of a child, regardless of whom the alleged perpetrator might be. Furthermore, anyone reporting abuse is protected by law from any civil or criminal liability when acting in good faith.
Meet the CPP medical team
- Dr. Robert Paschall, Medical Director Child Protection Program
- Dr. Maria Spivey, Child Protection Forensics Pediatrics
- Nancy Duncan, RN, CPNP
Contact
Phone -- 800.392.3738, Missouri Children’s Division (CD)