A panel representing the perspectives of providers, regulators, policy makers, and lawyers discussed day care regulation. The participants identified areas of overregulation caused primarily by the number of separate, uncoordinated regulators. In addition, they identified gaps where improved requirements are needed: smaller group size; emphasis on handwashing procedures; mandatory, ongoing training of providers; and more-defined policy on inclusion or exclusion of mildly ill and asymptomatic children. The number of routine standard-by-standard inspections can be reduced when states identify a few significant standards, compliance with which correlates with compliance with all standards. Education by the state health agency is needed. Pediatricians should know when their patients use day care and be conscious of public health implications when diagnosing infectious disease. More frequent interaction between pediatricians and the day care programs of their patients is needed.

Child Care↗

PubMedDate not supplied

Liability for infectious diseases in day care: legal and practical considerations.

A lawsuit directed by parents at a day care program following an outbreak of infectious disease would most likely be based on the legal theory of negligence--the failure to exercise due care as required by circumstances. In the determination of liability for infectious diseases in child day care, the element of causation is most critical. Did the day care facility's actions or failure to act cause the harm? Another important question is whether an infectious disease can be occupational and under what circumstances. Although worker's compensation laws initially had no provisions for occupational disease, now all states recognize responsibility for them. Awareness of potential problems with legal liability and establishment of procedures to minimize risk are important for day care providers, public health officials, clinicians, and parents.

Child Day Care Centers↗