An Interprofessional Care Model for Evaluating Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) Among Low-Income Children

The worldwide prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) is increasing, which will likely result in a growth of programs targeting the assessment and intervention needs of this population. However, there are few published studies documenting the development of programs that can serve as a valuable tool for communication of optimal service delivery and common obstacles and challenges. Programs targeting low-income, ethnically diverse populations are particularly imperative given the existing socioeconomic and ethnic disparities in ASD assessment and diagnosis. This article outlines the development of the MetroHealth Autism Assessment Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio, an interprofessional clinic targeting the assessment and diagnosis of ASDs in children ages 24 to 48 months from an inner-city underprivileged Medicaid population. In line with our goals of increasing diagnostic efficiency and care coordination, we examined clinical outcomes relative to preclinic data in time to diagnosis, number of providers seen prior to diagnosis, and number of “no-show” appointments. Results indicated significantly reduced time to diagnoses relative to preclinic data, likely associated with better care coordination. Number of providers seen and no-show appointments were not significantly different. Establishment of the clinic has enabled us to connect patients to community-based resources in a timely manner, potentially reducing disparities in ASD diagnosis and intervention. Obstacles have included scheduling monthly clinical staff meetings and procuring funding for a patient navigator. Future objectives include launching a parent support group and implementing short-term cognitive–behavioral therapy-based interventions for mothers of newly diagnosed children.