Practice patterns and determinants of wait time for autism spectrum disorder diagnosis in Canada.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Inefficient diagnostic practices for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may contribute to longer wait times, delaying access to intervention. The objectives were to describe the diagnostic practices of Canadian pediatricians and to identify determinants of longer wait time for ASD diagnosis.

Methods

An online survey was conducted through the Canadian Paediatric Society's developmental pediatrics, community pediatrics, and mental health sections. Participants were asked for demographic information, whether they diagnosed ASD, and elements of their diagnostic assessment. A multiple linear regression of total wait time (time from referral to communication of the diagnosis to the family) as a function of practice characteristics was conducted.

Results

A total of 90

SUBMITTER: Penner M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5840789 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature