Community-based Evaluation Model Demonstrated as Valid Approach for Reducing Autism Diagnostic Delays

A new study in the August 2023 issue of Pediatrics (published online July 18) evaluating the diagnostic accuracy of early autism evaluation reveals traditional experts are not the only ones qualified for this assignment. As noted in the study “Diagnostic Accuracy of Primary Care Clinicians Across a Statewide System of Autism Evaluation,” community-based primary care clinicians who receive specialty training can make accurate diagnoses of autism in most young children. This study took place within the Early Autism Evaluation Hub system, a statewide network of community primary care clinicians trained to provide streamlined diagnostic evaluations for young children, ages 14-48 months, at increased likelihood of autism. Of the 126 children included in the study, there was an 82% agreement between non-specialist clinicians and expert autism specialists when a standard training and clinical pathway was followed. The findings suggest primary care clinicians who receive specialty training are highly reliable when they confirm an autism diagnosis. Authors of the study say the capability of primary care clinicians to conduct diagnostic evaluations of young children at increased likelihood of autism is imperative for reducing delays and disparities, especially for children and families historically more susceptible to socioeconomic challenges and educational disadvantages. Diagnostic delays impede enrollment in targeted interventions early in life. Researchers add that testing strategies designed to mitigate false negative cases is an essential next step in ensuring the accuracy and quality of streamlined community-based autism evaluations. 

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The American Academy of Pediatrics is an organization of 67,000 primary care pediatricians, pediatric medical subspecialists and pediatric surgical specialists dedicated to the health, safety and well-being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults.