The Interdisciplinary Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities Training Program (LEND) prepares professionals for leadership roles in health and related professions that care for infants, children and adolescents with, or at risk for, neurodevelopmental and related disabilities.
LEND interdisciplinary training in this program
is provided by faculty from thirteen disciplines:
- audiology
- communication disorders
- dentistry
- family resource
- genetics counseling
- health administration
- nursing
- nutrition
- occupational therapy
- pediatrics
- physical therapy
- psychology
- social work
- special education
Curriculum
The LEND curriculum incorporates both didactic and practicum-based learning experiences to prepare future leaders to serve children and their families through coordinated, family-centered and culturally competent clinical care as well as public health services and policy systems change.
Trainees/Fellows
LEND trainees are advanced graduate and post-graduate students who are selected for their outstanding emerging clinical skills and their commitment to improving the quality of life for children and their families. Alumni contribute to teams across the nation in both clinical and public health settings.
Interdisciplinary Service Model
Each discipline brings a different and necessary perspective to provide a comprehensive approach to complex problems. Interdisciplinary teams collaborate with families to improve the health and development of each child.
Goal
Improving the health and well-being of children and their families by training leaders in the field, demonstrating effective interdisciplinary service models, providing continuing education and technical assistance and contributing to the basic fund of knowledge in concert with other components of the Title V system.
Funding
There are currently thirty-five LEND Programs located in twenty-nine states and the District of Columbia. LEND training grants are awarded by the MCHB to accredited medical schools within universities, most of which are designated as a University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD.)