MPEEC Innovation Makes MPEEC Unique

Mandatory referrals from DCFS to MPEEC for consultation

Recognizing that nonverbal children are at higher risk for child physical abuse, all children less than 36 months of age who live in Chicago and are reported to DCFS for head, skeletal, or internal injuries receive MPEEC services.

This is a critical period: Children under 36 months with injuries are at greater risk for child maltreatment. More than one-quarter (27.8%) of victims are in the age range of birth through two years of age  (National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System, 2021).

A real-time referral

A referral to the MPEEC Investigations Coordinator from DCFS at the time the child is reported to the child welfare agency promotes efficiency and provides DCFS and law enforcement with early access to child abuse medical experts to aid in understanding a child’s injury.

A formalized case management process

The MPEEC Investigations Coordinator ensures ongoing education and communication between medical experts and DCFS and law enforcement investigators from referral to final opinion. The coordinator also assists with identifying and acquiring vital medical records necessary for review. Ongoing medical education by the MPEEC medical providers promotes an understanding of the medical aspects of an investigation.

A child abuse pediatrician with expertise in discerning the manner of injury

Child abuse pediatricians (CAPs) are physicians with special training in assessing children for abuse or neglect. They are board-certified and recognized by the medical community as experts in child maltreatment and discerning manner of injury. Learn more about Child Abuse Pediatrics.

A final definitive MPEEC opinion

Using data collected from the interagency investigation,  MPEEC writes an expert medical opinion that addresses the manner of injury.

Who receives MPEEC services?

Children are referred to MPEEC by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. Referral to MPEEC is mandated when a child is:

• Less than 36 months of age
• A resident of Chicago
• Reported for head, internal, or skeletal injuries that may be concerning for maltreatment

DCFS may also choose to seek medical expertise in child maltreatment investigations and request an opinion from MPEEC.