GSDD5015 Physical Health – Developmental Disability

Listen to a brief audio introduction by Seeta

The aim of this unit of study is for students to gain an understanding of the main health issues faced by people with developmental disability, and to develop a comprehensive, multidisciplinary and coordinated approach to their assessment and management. Students will also gain an insight into the broader systemic factors that influence the health and health care delivery in this population.

At the end of this unit of study, students will be able to:

1. Describe the patterns of mortality in people with developmental disability, including mortality rates, causes and risk factors for death. They will identify strategies to reduce the risk of premature death in people with developmental disability
2. Understand the aetiological basis of developmental disability, including the relevant genetics.
3. Identify the common physical health problems seen in people with developmental disability and understand the changing health patterns and needs across the lifespan.
4. Formulate a comprehensive, multidisciplinary plan for health care that takes into account the circumstances, needs and goals of people with developmental disability, their families and carers.
5. Identify the main legislative and ethical issues relating to health care provision in people with developmental disability.
6. Identify the range of health services that are available to people with developmental disability and assess how well these services meet the health needs of this population.

Dr Seeta Durvasula is a Medical Lecturer in Developmental Disabilities, Centre for Developmental Disability Studies, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sydney. She is also a Consultant Medical Officer at the Royal Rehabilitation Centre Sydney, and Affiliate Physician, Diagnostic and Assessment Services, St Gorge Hospital, Kogarah. As well as teaching medical students, she is involved in developing education modules for general practitioners and other health professionals. She conducts general medical and nutrition clinics for adolescents and adults with developmental disability. Her research interests in developmental disability include the areas of mortality, vitamin D deficiency and health services.