Use of Interactive Television in Identifying Autism in Young Children: Methodology and Preliminary Data

Children living in rural and underserved areas experience decreased access to health care services and are often diagnosed with autism at a later age compared to those living in urban or suburban areas. This study examines the utility and validity of an ASD assessment protocol conducted via video conferencing (VC). Participants (n = 17) included families with young children (2.5-6 years) requesting an evaluation for ASD in an interdisciplinary clinic. We randomly assigned families to complete an additional evaluation either in-person or via VC prior to their clinic appointment and compared diagnostic impressions to their interdisciplinary clinic evaluation. Results demonstrate excellent inter-rater agreement on diagnoses between clinicians in the VC setting and the interdisciplinary team, which suggests VC may be a viable method to increase access to autism diagnostic services, and ultimately early intervention, for families in rural and underserved areas.