Dell children’s (S)TAAR model of early autism assessment

Abstract

Here, we describe a transdisciplinary effort to efficiently and equitably improve access to comprehensive evaluations for young children at-risk for autism and related neurodevelopmental disorders in the Austin, Texas community. What emerged from this collaboration between Dell Children’s Medical Group and The University of Texas at Austin is a flexible clinical approach that emphasizes patientcentered care, community partnerships, best practices, and provider satisfaction. This chapter outlines integral components of our (Sin Exclusión) Transdisciplinary Autism Assessment & Resources (S)TAAR model, with the hope of providing an example of early autism assessment that can be implemented in medically underserved communities through pediatric specialty clinics. Future iterations of themodel are aimed at increasing professional training opportunities for students and early career clinicians and further increasing post-diagnostic family supports. The benefits and limitations of the current model are discussed and avenues for expansion are considered in greater detail.