2035V - Expediting Early Identification of Autism Through Alternative Diagnostic Service Delivery Models

Autism assessment is a multifaceted process requiring extensive testing and skilled practitioners with experience in differential diagnostics. For decades, it has generally been accepted that the differential diagnostic process related to autism is the proprietary domain of developmental pediatricians and doctoral level psychologists, however a shortage of these professionals, insurer requirements, and stringent best-practice guidelines have exacerbated long waitlists at autism diagnostic centers. We propose three alternative service delivery models which focus on increased participation from allied specialties, including speech-language pathology, in community collaborations to expedite early identification of autism spectrum disorders.