Mixed Methods Analysis of Caregiver Satisfaction With the Early Autism Evaluation Hub System

Area of Science:

• Pediatric healthcare
• Autism spectrum disorder diagnostics
• Health services research

Background:

• Diagnostic delays for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) disproportionately affect minoritized children.
• Limited research exists on caregiver satisfaction with community-based ASD evaluation models.
• Primary care settings are increasingly involved in early autism screening and diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate caregiver satisfaction with a statewide community-based autism evaluation system in primary care.
• To examine factors influencing caregiver satisfaction and stress levels.
• To identify areas for improvement in community-based autism diagnostic services.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative feedback.
• Caregiver satisfaction and stress were assessed across various demographic, diagnostic, and clinical variables.
• The study involved evaluations conducted within a statewide primary care autism diagnosis network.

Main Results:

• Overall high caregiver satisfaction was reported with the community-based autism evaluations.
• No significant differences in satisfaction or stress were found based on child/family demographics, diagnostic outcome, clinician certainty, or accuracy.
• Qualitative feedback suggested a need for clearer explanations of diagnoses and service recommendations.

Conclusions:

• Community-based autism evaluations in primary care settings demonstrate high caregiver acceptability and satisfaction.
• This model shows potential as a feasible and sustainable approach to improving access to autism diagnostics.
• Further refinement of communication regarding diagnoses and services can enhance the caregiver experience.