Background: The aim of the current study was to understand service user’s experiences at a recently established student led interprofessional neurodevelopmental clinic for children and adolescents with suspected or confirmed prenatal alcohol exposure.
Method: Semi structured interviews were completed at 3 months post clinic attendance with 10 service users: eight parents/careers and two youth workers/case managers. Interview data were analyzed thematically using NVivo12.
Results: Four main themes were identified: (1) Clinic attendance seen as a positive event; (2) Validation, clarification, and relief, but also challenges post assessment, (3); Need for further support and importance of advocacy; and (4) Drawing on lived experience for future service improvements.
Conclusions: The current study demonstrated that service users reported benefits from tailored services delivered by student practitioners that were validating, supportive, and holistic. Findings from the current study can inform the development and implementation of future innovative service delivery models for individuals with suspected or confirmed prenatal alcohol exposure.
Published Date: 2022-10-17; Received Date: 2022-08-08
