Pilot study of neurodevelopmental diagnostic clinic model in school aged children, for whom diagnostic conclusions have been difficult to reach in Gloucestershire
by Lucy Austreng
Poster Download
Background
Neurodevelopmental assessment of primary school aged children in Gloucestershire involves collation of educational reports followed by assessment with a paediatrician. For some, this model of working can lead to a delay in diagnostic conclusions due to complexities with the child. This pilot was a model of multi-professional working between a paediatrician and clinical psychologist using two structured assessments for children with diagnostic challenges.
Aim
The aims were to gather data on clinician and patient experience, time from referral to diagnosis, and the advantages and difficulties of this method, to provide information for the MDT reviewing the primary school aged pathway for ASD diagnosis.
Method
The paediatrician selected patients for whom reaching diagnostic conclusions had been challenging. Data collected included demographic details, presenting problem, time to diagnosis from referral and parent completed questionnaires. ADOS and DISCO assessments were carried out.
Results
Thirteen children were enrolled with a median age of 9 years and 4 months. Eleven participants were male. Five participants were given a diagnosis of ASD; the other children received diagnoses of ADHD or other cognitive or behavioural difficulties. Six families gave parental feedback; most felt that the process assisted their understanding of their child but requested more follow-up support.
Conclusion
The clinicians felt the process was beneficial, resulted in improved clinician satisfaction and produced increased diagnostic accuracy in a complex patient group. This process resulted in positive patient experience and is likely to shorten time to diagnosis using a model of working that is closer to NICE guidance.