DIAGNOSTIC AND COLLABORATION NEEDS REGARDING ASD BY COMMUNITY PAEDIATRICIANS IN SOUTHERN ALBERTA

Abstract

BACKGROUND

Paediatricians play a central role in the screening and diagnosis for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Current diagnostic procedures rely on a history, screening and diagnostic tools, and collaboration with developmental specialists. The assessment process may vary among paediatricians due to the variety of available screening and diagnostic tools and opportunities to collaborate. As part of a quality improvement initiative through Child Development Services at the Alberta Children’s Hospital, paediatricians were surveyed about their...

Abstract

BACKGROUND

Paediatricians play a central role in the screening and diagnosis for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Current diagnostic procedures rely on a history, screening and diagnostic tools, and collaboration with developmental specialists. The assessment process may vary among paediatricians due to the variety of available screening and diagnostic tools and opportunities to collaborate. As part of a quality improvement initiative through Child Development Services at the Alberta Children’s Hospital, paediatricians were surveyed about their present ASD screening and diagnostic practice.

OBJECTIVES

To examine ASD screening and diagnostic practices among paediatricians for 4 to 6 year-old children in southern Alberta.

DESIGN/METHODS

Paediatricians were recruited from southern Alberta to complete an anonymous online survey. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

The response rate was 40% (36/90). The majority of participants (86%) reported using an ASD screening tool, and (56%) reported experiencing one or more barriers related to screening tool use. All participants reported experiencing one or more barriers to ASD diagnosis. Despite these barriers, 69% of participants reported making an ASD diagnosis within the last 12 months, and 61% of paediatricians indicated feeling confident in their ability to diagnose ASD. Most participants (57%) indicated that they would prefer to make an ASD diagnosis themselves, rather than have this be undertaken by another clinician.

CONCLUSION

Paediatricians in southern Alberta report important barriers in screening and diagnostic practices related to ASD. Further discussion with community paediatricians is required related to addressing these barriers to develop care pathways for this population.