COAT (Community Oriented Advocacy Training)

The COAT program was developed in response to the belief that pediatricians have responsibilities to children which go beyond the traditional doctor–patient relationship. This unique program offers pediatric residents a practical approach to advocacy training while addressing the problems of local children.

COAT provides hands-on advocacy experience and teaches residents how to assess community needs and develop relationships with community agencies. All pediatric residents are assigned to one of three teams, each with a pediatric faculty mentor. There is a nine–member advisory board of faculty and community professionals.

COAT projects have included:

• Risk reduction for in–home accidents
• Self–help programs for adolescents to address concerns such as violence in schools
• Teen pregnancy and drug use
• Smoking prevention
• Nutrition education for day care workers
• Prevention program for shaken baby head injuries