Use of the TELE-ASD-PEDS for Autism Evaluations in Response to COVID-19: Preliminary Outcomes and Clinician Acceptability

J Autism Dev Disord. 2021 Sep;51(9):3063-3072. doi: 10.1007/s10803-020-04767-y. Epub 2020 Oct 30.

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented disruptions to healthcare, including direct impacts on service delivery related to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Caregiver-mediated tele-assessment offers an opportunity to continue services while adhering to social distancing guidelines. The present study describes a model of tele-assessment for ASD in young children, implemented in direct response to disruptions in care caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. We present preliminary data on the outcomes and provider perceptions of tele-assessments, together with several lessons learned during the period of initial implementation.

Keywords: Assessment; Autism spectrum disorder; Telemedicine; Young children.

MeSH terms

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder* / diagnosis
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder* / epidemiology
  • Autistic Disorder*
  • COVID-19*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Humans
  • Pandemics
  • SARS-CoV-2