Citation

Heyworth B. Child Abuse Negl. 1981; 5(3): 257-265.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1981, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Queensland is a State of Australia of some 1.7 million square kilometers, with a population of only 2.2. million, half of whom reside in the southeast comer. Yet, it is the most decentralised State of Australia. Legislation introduced in 1980 endeavoured to make sure that child abuse was detected by medical practitioners and referred to S.C.A.N. teams organised on a regional basis. Members of the S.C.A.N. Team were authorized to take action after joint consultation. The organisation, the difficulties of implementation and the early results of the legislation are discussed. Problems with privacy of records and confidentiality are recognised. Public education was undertaken and the results, beneficial and adverse are highlighted. Notification of S.C.A.N. has increased public and professional awareness, and, in spite of difficulties of organisation in a large State of Australia, is providing increased and effective services to disadvantaged families.