Community-based Screening and Referrals for Autism

Abstract

ABSTRACT The average diagnosis of autism in the United States is after 4 years of age, even though a reliable diagnosis can be obtained as early as 2 years of age. Early identification of autism can help facilitate access to early intervention, yet many children experience significant delays in receiving a diagnosis and intervention. Various factors contribute to these challenges, including a lack of training among health-care providers and socioeconomic factors among families of young children. Community-based screening is one potential method to help address the need for early identification of children with autism. Some studies indicate that childcare workers can perform screenings for autism with minimal support. Occupational therapists frequently receive referrals for children with autism, but there is a lack of research on the role of interprofessional collaboration with early childcare providers to facilitate timely screening and referrals. The primary focus of this study is to determine the current practice of early childcare providers regarding developmental and autism-specific screening and referral practices within central Michigan. A total of 80 early childcare providers in central Michigan completed a quantitative survey. Results indicate that most early childcare providers are utilizing developmental screening tools such as the Ages and Stages Questionnaire, but only two participants report the use of autism specific screening tools and most did not feel prepared to assist with referrals for this population. Occupational therapists in early intervention have the opportunity and skill set to collaborate with early childhood professionals to facilitate the timely and appropriate use of screening tools for early identification and referrals for children with autism.