Dr. Willard and Dr. Kroncke were excited to attend the annual
INSAR meeting in Montreal this May of 2019.
Many renowned presenters confirmed the growing crisis
around the world regarding a need for autism identification and delivery of
treatment services.
In India, the Sangath project is using exciting
technological tools to identify developmental delay and deliver services to
families using community providers.
In the United States, in our own “frontier state” of
Colorado, the ECHO project provides virtual case consultation to physicians and
educators working with those who have autism or may have autism.
Stigma and cultural beliefs around mental health can
impact the supports children of Latino and African American descent receive.
They are diagnosed and treated less frequently and only in more severe cases
than white children. Our country needs more “promotores de salud” or community
health workers supporting families from within a community.
A dominant theme weaving through the research is the need
for unique and technological approaches to diagnosing and treating autism.
While the ADOS-2 has been the “gold standard,” it is indeed
one measure and is not feasible or practical in some diagnostic settings.
Researchers and providers are beginning to think beyond the
traditional model to find the best way to serve children and families. This burgeoning
approach aligns with CLEAR’s mission and purpose to Shorten the Time from
First Concern to Diagnosis, Free Families from the Burden of Unknowing and
Connect Kids with the Help They Need to Live Happy Lives.
CLEAR is developing CADE AI, a diagnostic measure for
autism and a software program with teaching tools and resources. CADE AI will bring
providers together in making diagnostic and treatment decisions as they serve
children and families.
It’s time to make a difference. Let’s do this!
