Measuring the service system impact of a novel telediagnostic service program for young children with autism spectrum disorder. (May 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Stainbrook, J Alacia; Weitlauf, Amy S; Juárez, A Pablo; Taylor, Julie Lounds; Hine, Jeffrey; Broderick, Neill; Nicholson, Amy; Warren, Zachary
• Is Part Of: Autism. Volume 23:Number 4(2019)
• Page Start: 1051
• Page End: 1056
• Publication Date: 2019-05
• Subjects: autism spectrum disorder -- diagnosis -- screening -- technology; Autism -- Periodicals; Autism in children -- Periodicals; 616.85882005
• DOI: 10.1177/1362361318787797
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1362-3613

Abstract

As prevalence of autism spectrum disorder continues to increase, so too does the need for timely, accessible diagnostic consultation. The present work extends from a previous study which provided preliminary evidence for the feasibility of expert clinicians to utilize telemedicine to triage autism spectrum disorder risk in young children. However, it did not examine whether a telediagnostic model had a demonstrable impact on tertiary care center referrals and usage. We therefore examined whether the introduction of telemedicine-based diagnostic consultation for families served by a rural medical facility affected referrals overall as well as to a metropolitan tertiary care diagnostic center. Results suggest that telemedicine diagnostic consultation in partnership with a referring early intervention system may positively impact referrals for diagnostic evaluation as well as the ability of families to schedule and attend appointments.