What is a Designated Medical Officer (DMO)?

Designated Medical Officer (DMO) / Designated Clinical Officer (DCO) for Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND)

The purpose of the role is to co-ordinate and improve health SEND planning and practice within the local area.  The post-holder is employed by the CCG.  

Duties of this function within the Code of Practice include:

1. To work closely with the paediatric multi-disciplinary team in supporting all activities necessary to ensure that the health provider services and CCG meet their responsibilities for children with SEND.
2. To provide overall strategic direction for the local health service in meeting statutory requirements for SEND, identifying priorities for development and facilitating improvement in implementation

Section 3.45 to 3.48 of the Code of Practice outlines further details.