Physician Perception and Education Impact on Neurologic Treatment of People With Developmental Disabilities

BackgroundPhysicians' attitudes toward individuals with developmental disabilities (DD) may be detrimental, with potential for misdiagnosis, mistreatment, avoidance of health care, and higher rates of illness.ObjectiveTo explore physician attitudes, education, and clinical management of neurologic conditions in individuals with DD.MethodsA 20-question online survey was administered to physicians among diverse specialties and years in practice to assess experience, education, attitudes, and clinical behavior in case-based scenario questions about management of neurologic conditions in individuals with vs without DD.ResultsAmong 67 survey participants, 52% of physicians reported that medical schools inadequately prepared them to work with populations with DD. Case-based scenarios demonstrated higher variability/uncertainty of management in DD vs non-DD cases (P < .05).ConclusionsPhysicians reported lower self-perceived education, higher uncertainty, and variability of practice when treating individuals with vs without DD.