Disparities among Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Systematic Review
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Mentor Information
Dr. Olukemi Akintewe
Description
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disability characterized by challenges with social communication, social interaction, and a tendency towards repetitive behaviors. Disparities among individuals with ASD manifest as unequal access to essential services, variations in quality of care, and differences in treatment outcomes. This systematic review discusses socioeconomic and cultural factors that contribute to inadequate care and support for individuals with ASD. A systematic review of healthcare disparities was conducted, present for populations diagnosed with ASD, and inequality factors in service delivery. Of the 54 non-duplicate articles screened, 23 research articles were included, describing the health challenges that individuals with ASD face when seeking medical or therapeutic services. The data indicates a strong correlation between lower socioeconomic status and reduced access to quality care for individuals with ASD, particularly in Black and Latino populations. Furthermore, children from lower-income backgrounds are less likely to receive treatment and diagnosis. Lesser-known comorbidities pertaining to ophthalmological, oral, and psychological conditions are often unnoticed by providers as patient interactions are limited by communication barriers. The disparities that individuals with ASD face draw back to systemic racism and classism. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the numerous challenges faced by individuals with ASD that can be of use for developing policies and strategies that aim to reduce these disparities and improve the quality of healthcare for those with ASD. Additionally, future research should align with developing these goals further.
Disparities among Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Systematic Review
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disability characterized by challenges with social communication, social interaction, and a tendency towards repetitive behaviors. Disparities among individuals with ASD manifest as unequal access to essential services, variations in quality of care, and differences in treatment outcomes. This systematic review discusses socioeconomic and cultural factors that contribute to inadequate care and support for individuals with ASD. A systematic review of healthcare disparities was conducted, present for populations diagnosed with ASD, and inequality factors in service delivery. Of the 54 non-duplicate articles screened, 23 research articles were included, describing the health challenges that individuals with ASD face when seeking medical or therapeutic services. The data indicates a strong correlation between lower socioeconomic status and reduced access to quality care for individuals with ASD, particularly in Black and Latino populations. Furthermore, children from lower-income backgrounds are less likely to receive treatment and diagnosis. Lesser-known comorbidities pertaining to ophthalmological, oral, and psychological conditions are often unnoticed by providers as patient interactions are limited by communication barriers. The disparities that individuals with ASD face draw back to systemic racism and classism. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the numerous challenges faced by individuals with ASD that can be of use for developing policies and strategies that aim to reduce these disparities and improve the quality of healthcare for those with ASD. Additionally, future research should align with developing these goals further.
