Associated Pediatricians is breaking ground as the first medical practice in Indiana to implement HealthySteps. This evidence-based initiative transforms traditional pediatric care by embedding developmental support directly into the clinical team. By integrating these resources on-site, the practice advocates for Northwest Indiana families during a child’s most critical years of growth.
“During a child’s first 1,000 days, they will visit their pediatric care provider 12 times,” said Laura Green, training and technical assistance specialist at First Things First Porter County. “First Things First is thrilled to introduce the HealthySteps model in Indiana to meet families where they are. Associated Pediatricians, the first doctors to adopt this program in the state, is bravely leading the way and giving Porter County babies the best start for a healthy beginning.
The HealthySteps initiative follows a national model from the nonprofit ZERO TO THREE to integrate a child development specialist directly into the pediatric team. This specialist works alongside doctors to ensure the social, emotional, and behavioral needs of young children are met during their most critical years of growth.