A Multiprofessional and Intersectoral Working Model to Detect and Support Preschool Children With Neurodevelopmental Difficulties (PLUSS Model) : Protocol for an Evaluation Study

Background: Neurodevelopmental difficulties with various emotional and behavioral symptoms increase the risk of mental health problems later in life. Although we know that early detection and interventions are effective, there is a lack of intersectoral, integrative, and evidence-based working models to provide these services for preschool children and their parents. PLUSS (Psykisk hälsa Lärande Utveckling Samverkan kring Små barn; English translation: mental health, learning, development, collaboration around preschool children) is a collaborative “one way in” model involving parents, health care providers, preschools, social services, and researchers. PLUSS provides coordinated services to screen, evaluate, and support toddlers with neurodevelopmental problems. It also offers parental interventions and education for preschool teachers. Objective: The model will be studied in a research project that aims to investigate (1) using a quasi-experimental study on longitudinal trajectories of neurodevelopmental difficulties and ability to function among participating preschoolers, (2) user satisfaction, and (3) implementation of the model and its effectiveness. The long-term goal is to provide evidence-based, coordinated services to reduce problems related to neurodevelopmental difficulties among preschool children and promote well-being and functioning in everyday life. Methods: The population of interest is children aged 1.5-5 years, whom the child health care nurse refers for further assessment due to suspected neurodevelopmental problems. Data are collected using questionnaires and semistructured interviews. Measures include sociodemographic data, longitudinal data on neurodevelopmental problems, parental well-being and satisfaction, the effectiveness of parental and preschool teacher training and implementation of the model, and fostered multisectoral collaborations. Data will be analyzed with qualitative and quantitative methods. Results: The PLUSS model has been approved by the National Ethics Review Board ...