UW has two interdisciplinary training programs aimed at developing a workforce of leaders in developmental disability and adolescent health.
UW LEND is an interdisciplinary training program committed to preparing graduate students, post-graduate fellows, mid-career health professionals, family members and self-advocates to:
- Practice interdisciplinary care for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families
- Practice family-centered care that is responsive to the diversity of the community and promotes inclusion and equity
- Advocate for systems and policies that best serve individuals with a developmental disability
- Assume leadership roles
UW LEND is located at the University of Washington, part of UW Pediatric's Institute on Human Development and Disability, a University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD), and is a part of a national network of LEND programs.
UW LEAH fellows participate in mentored, hands-on, and didactic training in adolescent health and prepares trainees to assume leadership roles in their respective fields: medicine, nursing, nutrition, psychology, and social work. Trainees achieve the following competencies:
- Mastery of MCH Leadership Competencies and administrative skills to affect systems change, for adolescents and families
- Knowledge and skill in all aspects of adolescent health and life course theory
- Mastery of interdisciplinary team and communication skills
- Skill in family-centered, community-based health care practices
- Skill to evaluate, apply, and conduct research in all aspects of adolescent health
- Knowledge and skill applying Title V legislation and policies and public health core functions to maternal and child health program and practice issues
- Ability to use technology to promote innovative practice models