Building a foundation for a healthy future: groundwork for pediatric adverse childhood experiences screening in Lethbridge primary care clinics

Abstract

There is substantial evidence that adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are events experienced in childhood that can negatively impact an individual’s quality of health. ACEs, preventable toxic chronic stressors, can increase chronic illness costing Alberta billions in direct health care costs and lost revenue each year. Primary care family practice clinics have a solid structure for preventive screening across the lifespan. Building a strong foundation through early intervention screening in young children age 0-5 years and using a trauma-informed care approach can help build protective factors and resiliency skills for the whole family. The ACEs and Resiliency Screening Implementation Guide can help clinicians to engage in this screening once pilot testing is completed. By promoting education about ACEs and strategies to build resiliency through community connections, we are investing in the lives and health of the patient population we serve.