Program overview
Children’s Medical Center Dallas believes that caring for children includes those who are in particularly difficult situations, and that those who have experienced neglect or abuse need more than a Band-Aid approach to help them heal, move beyond the abuse, and thrive.
The clinical team at Children’s REACH is linked with law enforcement, including the Dallas Police Department, Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center, the District Attorney’s Office, Child Protective Services (CPS), and all of the resources and medical subspecialties within Children’s Medical Center. The combined effort of those resources and healthcare professionals ensures that the best, most comprehensive care is available to at-risk children in North Texas.
Services
Inpatient and emergency room consultations in cases of suspected child abuse
Outpatient medical evaluations for child abuse diagnosis, prevention and treatment
Psychosocial assessments and referral to social services agencies and medical subspecialties
Social services
Translation services
Child Life support
Referrals
Referrals must come from Child Protective Services (CPS) or from law enforcement agencies. Physician-to-physician referrals or consultations can be arranged, however Children’s emphasizes that families should be notified of child abuse concerns prior to the appointment time. When scheduling an appointment, please provide the patient’s name and date of birth, reasons for and nature of concerns, and physician’s clinical findings.
In both the short and long term, the effects of child abuse can be devastating. Without expert care, the effects on an individual will almost certainly last a lifetime. REACH works closely with community agencies to promote early identification of at-risk children, and to support families through primary and secondary prevention efforts.
While a child’s health and safety is the primary concern of the Children’s REACH team, the staff goes beyond the initial referral and medical evaluation to ensure each child is connected to the treatment they need – including the psychosocial support and other resources necessary to help the child overcome the difficulties associated with physical abuse, sexual abuse, failure to thrive, and neglect.