Service utilization in a sample of preschool children with autism spectrum disorder: A Canadian snapshot

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Healthcare
• Developmental Pediatrics
• Autism Spectrum Disorder Research

Background:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting preschool-aged children.
• Understanding service utilization is crucial for early intervention and support.
• Limited data exists on the longitudinal service patterns for preschoolers diagnosed with ASD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the types and patterns of services received by preschool children diagnosed with ASD.
• To analyze service utilization in the five years following an ASD diagnosis.
• To identify variations in service provision across different Canadian provinces.

Main Methods:

• An inception cohort of 414 preschoolers diagnosed with ASD across five Canadian urban centers was studied.
• Parent/caregiver-reported service data was collected at four time points: diagnosis, 6 months, 12 months, and school entry.
• Services were categorized into 11 types, then grouped into four broader categories (no services, behavioral, developmental, general).

Main Results:

• Over 80% of children received services at diagnosis, increasing to nearly 95% by school entry.
• Developmental services (e.g., speech-language therapy) were most common initially.
• Combinations of behavioral and developmental services became more prevalent over time.
• Significant provincial variations in service provision were observed.

Conclusions:

• Preschoolers with ASD in urban areas generally access specialized services post-diagnosis.
• Marked disparities in service availability and type exist across provinces.
• Addressing provincial variations is essential for equitable ASD care.