Training Pediatric Interns to Be Trauma-Responsive Providers By Adapting A National Curriculum for Pediatricians

Background: Two decades ago, the medical literature reported an association between adverse childhood events (ACEs) and poor adult health outcomes. In 2012, the AAP issued a policy statement calling attention to toxic stress. Yet, a majority of pediatricians rated themselves as “not familiar” with childhood trauma in national surveys. Despite its importance, there is no standard structured curriculum for educating residents and medical students on these topics. A review of the medical education literature reveals a handful of medical schools and residency programs with independent lectures, but none with a cohesive curriculum. The AAP with the …