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Delays in identifying pediatric autism spectrum disorder (ASD) remain problematic despite directives aimed at improving early detection and intervention. Caregiver mental health concerns could be one explanation for this documented delay, necessitating further inquiry into mental health factors that predict delayed age of ASD diagnosis. This study investigated the impact of caregiver mental health concerns, diagnoses within the three-generation family history, and demographic data on delayed ASD diagnosis using a sample of caregivers of children with ASD (N = 63). Factors that predicted a delayed response between the time when a child was suspected of having developmental delay and when the child presented for a developmental diagnostic evaluation were examined. Mental health concerns were assessed by using standardized screening tools for traumatic childhood experiences, depression, and anxiety. The average time between suspicion of developmental delay and the child's presentation for a diagnostic evaluation was 36 months. Female gender of the child and family histories that contain intellectual disability, learning concerns, neurological concerns, or Tourette's syndrome predicted prolonged time to diagnostic evaluation. Adverse childhood events (ACEs) experienced by caregivers were identified as predictors of generalized anxiety disorder and depression. A positive correlation was found between caregiver generalized anxiety disorder and depression. Caregiver type, child gender, and child ethnicity predicted generalized anxiety but not depression. Health care providers should address identified predictors for delayed ASD diagnostic evaluations with caregivers upon initial suspicion of developmental delay. Practice recommendations for health care providers include assessing a three-generation family history and evaluating caregiver mental health concerns. Further, identifying protective factors to improve caregiver resiliency may reduce this disparity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of therapy or service dogs to assist children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is increasing in clinical settings. Research studies indicate that children with ASD display enhanced prosocial behavior and emotional regulation when canines are included in therapy. Despite increased application of animal-assisted therapy in clinical and inpatient settings, healthcare providers show limited understanding of best practices for its use and require a research-based approach to incorporate animals effectively into therapeutic plans of care for pediatric patients with ASD. The use of therapy dogs to assist children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is increasing in clinical settings. Research studies indicate that children with ASD display enhanced prosocial behavior and emotional regulation when canines are included in therapy. Despite increased application of animal-assisted therapy in clinical settings, providers show limited understanding of best practices for its use and require a research-based approach to incorporate animals effectively into therapeutic plans of care for pediatric patients with ASD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early intervention is vital for improved health outcomes in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Innovations that support primary care providers' management of ASD are needed. The conclusion of this series outlines a research pilot program testing the usability of an author-developed clinical practice guideline for the initial management of pediatric patients at risk for ASD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pediatric autism spectrum disorder (ASD) consists of multisystem components that primary care providers (PCPs) must address. PCPs improve health outcomes associated with ASD when they administer developmental screening tools and thoroughly assess identifi ed concerns. Pursuing specialty health services early in childhood combined with managing comorbid conditions curtails symptom escalation and disease progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This series of articles aims to equip primary care providers (PCPs) with the tools to become healthcare leaders managing patients with pediatric autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Individuals with ASD can experience optimal health outcomes when timely, evidence-based interventions are implemented in the primary care setting. PCPs are uniquely situated to institute changes that redirect the trajectory of ASD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]