Investigating the accuracy of a novel telehealth diagnostic approach for autism spectrum disorder.

• DOI: 10.1037/pas0000317
• Publication Date: 2016-05-20T00:28:53Z
• Authors: Christopher J. Smith; Agata Rozga; Nicole Matthews; Ron Oberleitner; Nazneen Nazneen; Gregory Abowd
• Keywords: Telehealth; Inter-Rater Reliability; Gold standard (test); Kappa; Pervasive developmental disorder

Research indicates that a substantial amount of time elapses between parents' first concerns about their child's development and formal diagnosis autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Telehealth presents an opportunity to expedite the diagnostic process. This project compared novel telehealth approach utilizes clinically guided in-home video recordings gold standard in-person assessment. Participants included 40 families seeking ASD evaluation for child 11 typically developing children. Children were ages 18 months 6 years months; mean adaptive behavior composite = 75.47 (SD 15.94). All parent participants spoke English fluently. Families completed Naturalistic Observation Diagnostic Assessment (NODA) ASD, which was assessment (IPA). Agreement 2 methods, as well sensitivity, specificity, interrater reliability, calculated full sample subsample evaluation. agreement NODA IPA 88.2% (κ 0.75) in 85% 0.58) subsample. Sensitivity 84.9% both, whereas specificity 94.4% 85.7% Kappa coefficients reliability indicated 90% accuracy raters. technology share information with professionals provides method inform clinical judgment ASD. Due high level this sample, has potential improve efficiency process (PsycINFO Database Record