Changing Pattern of Childhood Illness & Disability Increased chronic health problems (10-14%) More mental health problems (15-20%) Greater appreciation of developmental problems – learning, language (12-17%) 36% of children on Medicaid at moderate to high risk for developmental problems Only 20-30% of at risk children are identified prior to school entrance Increase in serious emotional and behavioral difficulties in very young children, especially those involving self-regulation and communication. Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, 2003 Journal of the American Medical Association, 2000 Clinician-identified psychosocial problems increased from 6.8% to 18.7% for all pediatric visits between 1979 and 1996. 6% of US children are taking psychotropic medications. 300% increase between 1987 and 1996. 300% increase for psychotropic medication for 2 to 4 year olds between 1991 and 1995. Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, 2003 Journal of the American Medical Association, 2000