Is COVID-19 an adverse childhood experience (ACE): Implications for screening for primary care

Abstract

The report by DiGangi et al supports the feasibility of primary-care screening for adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) in pediatric primary care, however, significant controversy persists about the wisdom and clinical utility of implementing universal screening in pediatric primary care. In fact, many experts suggest that universal ACEs screening may introduce more harm than good. Instead, the study's findings provide an opportunity to raise awareness. Such a high prevalence of ACEs among children carries practical implications for primary care and public policy (https://www.acesaware.org/treat/clinical-assessment-treatment-planning/).