Prevention

The SEEK approach is a practical and evidence-based approach that helps primary care professionals (PCPs) address targeted social determinants of health or ACEs that are also risk factors for child maltreatment: parental depression, major stress, substance misuse, intimate partner (or domestic) violence, food insecurity and harsh punishment. SEEK thus enhances primary care by promoting the healthy functioning of children, parents, and families. It’s easy to implement, and the screening may be reimbursed.

Pediatricians, family medicine physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and residents in pediatric and family medicine primary care settings.
Anyone can complete the SEEK online training for free.

SEEK was developed to take advantage of excellent opportunities in primary healthcare to learn about children’s family environments and to facilitate help when needed. A practical approach was developed to help primary care professionals (PCPs) play this role. Two large randomized controlled trials have had very promising findings toward helping to prevent child maltreatment. SEEK helps respond to what has been learned in the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) studies: the potential long-term and substantial harm associated with childhood adversities. In addition, SEEK helps with the increasing recognition of the important need to address social determinants of health, also called health-related social needs.