SERVICES FOR CHILDREN
WITH DOWN SYNDROME (DS) IN HONG KONG
KL Yam, CM Yu, CB Chow, J Lau
Hong Kong Down
Syndrome Association (HKDSA)
Accessibility to medical, developmental, social
and educational services is essential for children with DS to develop to
full potential.
Objective: To evaluate service provisions,
utilization and satisfaction from the perspective of parents of DS
children.
Method: Questionnaires on services
provision, perceived need, access, referral time, satisfaction by various
professionals were distributed to members of HKDSA with children aged 0 to
18 years of age.
Results:
98 questionnaires were collected. Almost all received services from
paediatricians, however only 65%, 61% and 39% received ophthalmology, ENT
and dental services respectively. About 50% had received services from
allied health professionals. Majority was studying in special education
facilities. The most needed
services were speech therapy, educational assistance, assessment and
information provision. Majority was satisfied with the services provided.
Level of satisfaction was not related to perceived need, referral time,
follow up frequency or perceived difficulty in access to service.
Conclusions: The study provided important
information regarding the service need of families with DS children.
Services provided by the DS Clinics, Dental Clinics, speech therapy,
physiotherapy and occupational therapy should be strengthened. Referral to
Ophthalmology, ENT, Dental and Genetic Clinics should be enhanced.