This reflects the portion of LEND training grant devoted to support Improving Early Screening and Diagnosis of Autism in Underserved Populations. The purpose of this project is to determine if providing training and technical assistance on developmental delay and autism screening improves the overall timeliness of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommended well-child visit screenings and referrals in rural communities. In an effort to improve the timing of screening diagnosis for children aged birth to 36 months from underserved populations, specifically minorities, low income, and rural families, who are at-risk for developmental delays and autism spectrum disorders, AZLEND trainees provide training and collect data at rural community health centers. We have added a “train the trainer” component to the program to train physician leaders to manage their open programs. We continue teach data abstraction and developmental screening techniques.
Currently, 2 clinics in Santa Cruz and 2 clinics in Yuma counties participate in this project. There are 2 clinics in the northern part of the state interested in participating in the program.
Our data have been used by the state to help encourage rural practices to participate in developmental screening programs.
Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC)
Autism Research Database (AFD)
