California program screening for adverse childhood experiences is imperfect but important [CalMatters.org]

Some child advocates worry that California’s tool to screen kids for adverse childhood experiences has pitfalls that could cause even greater harm. Doctors argue that the innovative program is effective and beneficial, and creating systemic change in health care.

A recent commentary published by CalMatters raised a concern that screening for Adverse Childhood Experiences, or ACEs, may lead to unwarranted reports of suspected child abuse or neglect to Child Protective Services.

There is no evidence supporting the claim that ACE screening leads to unwarranted referrals to CPS. Rather, evidence collected as part of a seven-region statewide learning collaborative of 48 frontline clinics shows that both patients and providers find ACE screening to be acceptable and beneficial.

To continue reading, go to: https://calmatters.org/comment...mp;mc_eid=a3c4b7aaff