Introduction
Getting an accurate and early diagnosis for an autistic
person is extremely important, especially in the case of children, as they may
benefit hugely from early intervention. It is equally important to get the
diagnosis from a qualified specialist, such as a developmental specialist or a
psychiatrist, after ruling out other medical conditions that have similar
symptoms.
The diagnosis of autism depends on the test results,
observations, and interviews all taken together and is not based on any one
particular test. Choosing the right provider to diagnose your child with autism
spectrum disorder will help in the early management of the condition.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism, also known as an autism spectrum disorder, is a
neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by challenges concerning speech,
nonverbal communication, social skills, and restricted or repetitive
behaviours.
The symptoms and interventions associated with this disorder
vary from child to child. Although the condition can be present in people of
any age group, early screening and diagnosis during childhood are the keys to
improved treatment outcomes.
Who Diagnoses Autism Spectrum Disorder?
There is no single test that can diagnose autism spectrum
disorder. It is for this reason that the proper diagnosis of autism spectrum
disorder can be made only after a combined collaboration from a
multidisciplinary specialist team who are trained in diagnosing autism.
The various specialists who can contribute to the diagnosis
of the condition include the following:
Developmental Pediatrician
These doctors specialised in childhood developmental
disorders such as autism. They are trained extensively to diagnose autism
spectrum disorders.
Child Psychologist
These doctors have specialized training in autism symptoms,
diagnosis, testing, and treatment. They can provide therapy and counseling to
children having autism but do not prescribe any medications.
Psychiatrist
They are medical doctors having specialization in mental
health. These doctors can diagnose conditions such as autism, prescribe
medications, and provide therapy.
Speech, Occupational, Physical, and Behavioral Therapists
These therapists play an important role in the evaluation of
autism spectrum disorders. They help in speech assessment, movement,
coordination, behavior, and learning life skills using play-based tests.
Neurologist
A consultation with a neurologist can help in ruling out
other disorders, such as epilepsy, that could have symptoms similar to autism
spectrum disorders.
How is Autism Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of autism does not depend on a single
diagnostic test. Rather, the condition can be diagnosed by using a combination
of the following:
- Observation of the child
- Discussion with the parents about the child’s development
and symptoms
- Developmental screening tests
- Standardised autism diagnostic tests
Examples of the common diagnostic tests used are:
- Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule: The doctor will
observe and interact with the child while looking for important communication
and social behavioural problems associated with autism.
- Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised: This is a structured
type of interview in which the parents will be asked in detail about the
child’s behaviors, symptoms, and development.
- Social Communication Questionnaire: The parents will be
asked to complete a questionnaire regarding their child’s social interactions
and communication skills.
- Childhood Autism Rating Scale: The parents, specialists,
and teachers will complete a 15-item rating scale that assesses the behaviors
of the child.
- Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers: This is a
screening test for autism symptoms used in young children who are between 18 to
24 months of age.
The diagnosis of autism depends largely on the expertise and
judgement of the doctor in interpreting the results of the above tests
together.
Key Considerations in Finding the Right Diagnostic Provider
Dr. Sonam Kothari, Consultant Pediatric Neurologist and
Behavior Analyst at Butterfly Learnings, suggests eight key factors that one should consider to find the
right diagnostic provider for autism:
1. Accessibility: Find a provider near your area of
residence to help you and your child attend regular appointments during the
evaluation process easily.
2. Ask for a referral: You can ask for a diagnostic provider
recommendation from your child’s pediatrician and even get help to schedule the
appointment quickly.
3. Multidisciplinary team: Choose a diagnostic center with
access to a multidisciplinary team of specialists to get a comprehensive
evaluation for your child.
4. Experienced specialists: Choose specialists who have
extensive training and experience in handling autism cases.
5. Quick diagnosis: Prioritize diagnostic providers who can
provide quick test reports and an early diagnosis. This enables early
intervention and better treatment outcomes.
6. Compassionate and supportive: Choose providers who
provide compassion and support to your child, hear all your concerns patiently,
and have a caring attitude.
7. Cultural competence: Choose providers that provide care
to patients belonging to diverse cultures, behaviors, and beliefs, including
minorities, girls, and children of different nationalities.
8. Insurance coverage: Choose a provider that accepts your
health insurance policy to reduce the diagnosis and treatment costs.
Conclusion
Choosing the best autism service providers to diagnose and
manage your child’s autism spectrum disorder is an important decision that
needs proper research and consideration.
Understanding your child’s special needs, asking for
referrals and recommendations, and asking the right types of questions to
potential providers and specialists can help you make an informed choice that
can help in supporting your child’s well-being and development, as well as improving
your child’s overall quality of life.
