Need for Pediatric Resident Training in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Preparation for Primary Care

Abstract

Introduction: The increased prevalence of autism spectrum disorder and documented benefits of early intensive intervention have created a need for flexible systems for determining eligibility for autism-specific services, including primary care provider training. Unfortunately, many pediatricians feel uncertain assessing diagnostic risk and facilitating follow-up care for children with autism. Methods: We surveyed current residents regarding their confidence around engaging in specific practice behaviors and providing care for patients presenting with concerns for autism compared to other common concerns seen in primary care. Results: Residents were significantly more confident in their skills with respect to caring for patients with other common concerns than for patients with autism including statistically significant differences in their perceived ability to diagnose, communicate with families about, treat/manage, and facilitate follow-up care. Additionally, nearly all residents with career plans for primary care indicated that autism concerns should fall within their scope of practice and that further training and education about autism is important to their careers. Discussion: These findings underscore that although many current residents feel that being able to recognize and diagnose autism is important, they feel unprepared to do so within current training models and will likely carry this uncertainty forward into future practice. This study reflects clear targets for advancing incorporation of enhanced and active autism-specific training into pediatric residency programs.