This IDD Health Matters podcast features a conversation between Dr. Craig Escudé and Ley Linder, focusing on a collaborative initiative called "Unlocking Behaviors." This project, inspired by Dr. Rick Rader, aims to bridge the gap between medical and behavioral approaches when evaluating challenging behaviors in individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The discussion emphasizes the importance of integrated healthcare, where medical, mental, oral, and behavioral health professionals work together to uncover the root causes of behaviors that may initially seem purely psychological but often have underlying medical explanations. Both speakers highlight the critical role of direct support professionals, who, despite lacking formal training, possess deep knowledge of the individuals they care for and can provide essential observational insights. The conversation also addresses the lack of formal training in both medical and behavioral fields regarding the intersection of health and behavior, advocating for ongoing education and openness to interdisciplinary collaboration.
