Pediatric Healthcare Professionals’ Views on Autism Spectrum Disorder Screening at 12–18 Months

Abstract

This study explored North Carolina pediatric healthcare professional’s (PHP) perceptions of screening 12–18 month old infants for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Eight focus groups (66 PHPs) were conducted across practice settings. The purpose was to explore PHP’s perspectives to: inform development of ASD screening tools and ultimately impact their use in PHP settings. PHPs reported concerns, barriers, and the need for research to support early ASD screening. Additionally, they expressed the need for: (a) clear “red flags” of ASD for 12–18 month olds; (b) socioculturally sensitive and effective screening tools; (c) effective early interventions; (d) systems to handle potential increases in referrals; and (e) continuing education. PHPs also demonstrated preferences about screening tool characteristics and processes for enhancing screening efforts.

Department

Education

Publication Date

9-2014

Journal Title

Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders

Publisher

Springer

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1007/s10803-014-2101-2

Document Type

Article

Link to Full Text

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