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Examination of the Impact of the 'Get SET Early' Program on Equitable Access to Care within the Screen-Evaluate-Treat Chain in Toddlers with Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Source :
-
Autism: The International Journal of Research and Practice . Aug 2023 27(6):1790-1802. - Publication Year :
- 2023
-
Abstract
- Delays in autism spectrum disorder identification/services could impact developmental outcomes. Although trends are encouraging, children from historically underrepresented minority backgrounds are often identified later and have reduced engagement in care. It is unclear if disparities exist throughout the screen-evaluate-treat chain, or if early detection programs such as "Get SET Early" that standardize these steps are effective countermeasures. Pediatricians/primary care providers administered Communication and Symbolic Behavior Scales IT Checklist screens at 12-, 18-, and 24-month well-baby examinations, and parents designated race, ethnicity, and developmental concerns. Toddlers who scored in the range of concern, or whose pediatricians/primary care providers had concerns, were referred for evaluations. Rates of screening and evaluation engagement within ethnic/racial groups were compared to U.S. Census proportions. Age at screen, evaluation, and treatment and quantity was compared across groups. Regressions examined whether key factors were associated with ethnicity or race. No differences were found for mean age of screen, evaluation, initiation of behavioral therapy, or quantity received between racial and ethnic groups. Historically underrepresented minority children were more likely to fall into the range of concern, referred for evaluations, and have their parents express developmental concerns. Although there remain gaps within the pipeline, implementation of systemized programs can be effective in ensuring equitable access to resources across communities.
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 1362-3613 and 1461-7005
- Volume :
- 27
- Issue :
- 6
- Database :
- ERIC
- Journal :
- Autism: The International Journal of Research and Practice
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- EJ1386643
- Document Type :
- Journal Articles<br />Reports - Research
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1177/13623613221147416