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ANNEX A: National diagnostic standard
A quality standard for ASD diagnostic services is outlined which offers people with ASD and family carers a clear indication of what can be expected from a diagnostic service and provides a checklist for multi-disciplinary teams providing the service.
A quality service should:
1. Take place within the context of a multi-disciplinary AND multi-agency service involving professionals with ASD training.
2. Understand that diagnosis ought to be a process which supports the development and progress of an individual.
3. Be aware of the need to involve both the person with ASD, and parent/carer/partner/independent advocate if applicable, in the assessment and explanations.
4. Recognise and acknowledge cultural differences of all individuals and families.
5. Dedicate sufficient time for assessment in keeping with consensus timeframes.
6. Allow individuals of all ages access to a service appropriate to their needs in their locality.
7. Make a diagnosis if appropriate regardless of whether there are statutory services available.
8. Use internationally recognised diagnostic criteria and specify which criteria have been used.
9. Make a full diagnostic assessment including developmental history. In adults the developmental history is not always available but every effort should be made to ascertain it.
10. Use information drawn from observation, standardised interview and clinical experience in a variety of contexts such as home, school, workplace and the community.
11. Identify psychological, physical, social and other needs of the individual as well as making practical suggestions through joint planning of health, education, social work and the voluntary sector, to ameliorate any particular difficulties the individual is facing.
12. Produce a document to state diagnosis, which criteria and tools were used to assess, and describe any co-morbid conditions.
13. Give clear sensitive verbal explanations of the syndrome and provide quality written information.
14. Refer on for any medical or other assessment as appropriate or relevant genetic counselling.
15. Offer a follow-up appointment, preferably face to face, for the individual to ask further questions.
16. Offer clear explanations if a diagnosis of autism is not made (and any differential diagnosis) and offer second opinion as appropriate.
17. Provide information about post diagnostic services such as support groups.
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