Early Intervention for Children with Autism in Low-Resource District

A recent clinical project aimed at addressing healthcare gaps for young children in an immigrant, low-resource district has shown promising results in early identification and intervention for autism and other neurodevelopmental issues. The project focused on improving the referral process from primary care to specialist services, ensuring earlier diagnoses, and initiating timely interventions.

A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining data from healthcare statistics with qualitative in-depth interviews of child health nurses. Results showed significant improvements: the mean age for referral from primary to specialist care for suspected autism dropped from 38 to 27 months. Similarly, the mean age for an autism diagnosis decreased from 44 to 31 months. Waiting times from referral to intervention were also shortened, with interventions often beginning at the primary care level before the formal referral was made.

Nurses involved in the project shared positive feedback in qualitative interviews, identifying three key themes: enhanced knowledge, the importance of the initiative for children and families, and the efficiency of the new approach, which reduced gaps in care.

The study concluded that improving professional knowledge of early childhood symptoms and fostering collaboration between primary care providers, families, and preschools can bridge critical gaps in care. The results highlight the potential for integrated healthcare systems and closer family partnerships to ensure young children receive early assessments and interventions that are crucial to their development.

Helena Bradbury, EMJ

Reference

Nygren G et al. Bridging gaps in healthcare: child health services and specialist care collaboration for young children with autism and coexisting conditions. Front. Pediatr. 2025; doi.org/10.3389/fped.2025.1501650.