Professional paper
https://doi.org/10.2478/10004-1254-61-2010-2020
School Choice and Vocational Guidance for Schoolchildren with Chronic Diseases and Other Health Problems
Franciska Lančić
; Služba za školsku medicinu, Zavod za javno zdravstvo Varaždinske županije, Ivanec, Hrvatska
Slavenka Majski-Cesarec
; Privatna ordinacija medicine rada, Varaždin, Hrvatska
Vera Musil
; Sveučilište u Zagrebu, Medicinski fakultet, Škola narodnog zdravlja “Andrija Štampar”,Katedra za socijalnu medicinu i organizaciju zdravstvene zaštite, Zagreb, Hrvatska
Abstract
By following a child’s growth, development, and health, school medicine specialist can see opportunities for career choice. Special attention is needed for schoolchildren with chronic diseases and developmental difficulties, because of limited occupation choices. Studies report 10 % to 15 % prevalence of chronic diseases among schoolchildren. Parents and children should be informed about child’s limitations before career choice. It would be helpful for the students to develop interests for occupations that are not contraindicated for their condition. Physical examination gives an insight into the psycho-physical abilities of an eighth-grade primary school student for further education. During examination, counselling and vocational guidance is provided for all students with chronic diseases and other health problems. All procedures are oriented to personal abilities and preferences. The aim of this study was to analyse the reasons for vocational guidance in the Varaždin County of Croatia. It included eighth-grade students from ten primary schools from 1998/99 to 2007/08. Of 4939 students, 458 (9.3 %) with chronic diseases and health difficulties were referred to vocational guidance. Of these, 41.3 % were referred due to mental and behavioural disorders. These students were assessed and received a recommendation for at least two occupations. Forty-eight students (10.5 %) did not follow the recommendation. In a coordinated effort, school physicians, vocational guidance experts, and school and local authorities should secure enrollment of students with chronic diseases and health difficulties in secondary schools and follow their development and education to provide them the best available career opportunities.
Keywords
career choice; counselling; occupational medicine; physical examination; school health service
Hrčak ID:
58444
URI
Publication date:
17.9.2010.
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