Individuals who are referred to autism specialty clinics present such diverse symptoms as can only be attributed to the full spectrum of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The fact that there is no homogeneity in ASD means that physicians usually have to contend with utilizing a complicated process to identify those individuals who are on the spectrum. Fortunately, however, advances have been seen in the availability of standardized ASD testing tools, and there has been an increase in the knowledge amassed about how symptoms vary across the spectrum. These factors, coupled with the different experiences that caregivers have had in the referral and diagnostic process, have all contributed to better informed clinical work (Huerta and Lord, 2012).
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ASD can be differentiated from other developmental difficulties as a result of the inclusion of a language assessment along with standardized cognitive and developmental testing. The results of these tests give professionals information regarding a child’s overall level of ability and functioning in both verbal and nonverbal areas. They are an essential starting point for making a best estimate of a clinical diagnosis. Some of the useful tools used in testing children and toddlers for autism include different versions of the Autism Diagnostic Observational Schedule which continues to be revised to improve accuracy and expand its clinical utility (Huerta and Lord, 2012).
The design of proper diagnostic evaluations of ASD lends itself to best practices in the assessment of this disorder. Accurate diagnoses require that instruments are designed to assess the multiple domains that ASD affects which include functioning and behavior, and that parents and caregivers are involved and engaged, seeing how they are also active partners. It is also imperative that physicians, and pediatricians, in particular, serve an advocacy role in the healthcare systems to make sure that all families can access proper diagnostic and treatment services.
References
Huerta, M., & Lord, C. (2012). Diagnostic Evaluation of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Pediatric Clinics of North America, 59(1), 103-111.
ASD can be differentiated from other developmental difficulties as a result of the inclusion of a language assessment along with standardized cognitive and developmental testing. The results of these tests give professionals information regarding a child’s overall level of ability and functioning in both verbal and nonverbal areas. They are an essential starting point for making a best estimate of a clinical diagnosis. Some of the useful tools used in testing children and toddlers for autism include different versions of the Autism Diagnostic Observational Schedule which continues to be revised to improve accuracy and expand its clinical utility (Huerta and Lord, 2012).
The design of proper diagnostic evaluations of ASD lends itself to best practices in the assessment of this disorder. Accurate diagnoses require that instruments are designed to assess the multiple domains that ASD affects which include functioning and behavior, and that parents and caregivers are involved and engaged, seeing how they are also active partners. It is also imperative that physicians, and pediatricians, in particular, serve an advocacy role in the healthcare systems to make sure that all families can access proper diagnostic and treatment services.
References
Huerta, M., & Lord, C. (2012). Diagnostic Evaluation of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Pediatric Clinics of North America, 59(1), 103-111.