Developmental and autism screening process by pediatrician offices in El Paso County

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is a group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by either an emerging and gradual course or developmental regression in early childhood. Symptoms of ASD typically include deficits in social interaction and communication with unusually restricted interests. Due to the concern of the recent increase in diagnosis of ASD and the broadening of ASD diagnosis with the updates to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manuel (DSM), the process of how qualified physicians and other clinicians go about diagnosing ASD is often overlooked. Early diagnosis of ASD is crucial given that the earlier the diagnosis is given, the sooner intervention and therapy can begin for the child. A survey was created and pediatricians within the El Paso county area responded to the survey which sought to discover if developmental screenings were being conducted for developmental/autism in children in the El Paso county region. Results of the survey indicated that developmental/autism screens are most often conducted by a pediatrician; both a parent interview and a formal screening tool are utilized for developmental/autism screens; and failed developmental/autism screens are most often referred to early childhood intervention and developmental pediatrician