Texas
An Interview with Dr. Steve Barnett - Posted February 2008

Why did you join DFT? 
I joined DFT because of George Askew’s (founder) leadership, direction and action.

Why is advocacy important to you?
Through advocacy, we can change the context in which children grow up.  Prevention works. By investing in contextual changes, especially in the early years, we can help children reach their full potential.

What activities are you currently working on have worked on?
I’m on the board of Texans Care for Children and chair the policy committee.  I have given talks at the Texas Association for the Education of Young Children and the Texas Association for Infant Mental Health on roles physicians can play and how to engage them.  I represent the Texas Medical Association and Pediatric Society on the state Early Childhood Comprehensive Systems initiative, RAISING TEXAS, especially the sections on access to care/medical home and socio-emotional development.  I have also led an initiative by the Texas Medical Association to better integrate mental health into primary care practice.  I am currently publishing the second edition of a resource manual for all pediatric and family medicine doctors for their annual meetings. 

What do you feel are the biggest social issues affecting young children in your state?
Funding for early education/child care to provide enough quality services and staff is one of the biggest issues affecting children in Texas.  We need a whole new approach.  The same can be said for access to medical care through medical homes as well.

How can a doctor incorporate advocacy into everyday interactions with patients and caregivers?
Most physicians feel overwhelmed; advocacy can be added in increments that don’t interrupt one’s professional schedule and it gives back a wonderful sense of accomplishment.  Finding a mentor is a great way to get on board that could be used more frequently.