Caregivers' experiences of service provision for their children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Date
2010-06-28T10:39:15Z
Authors
Hooper, Jennifer Jane
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
An increase in the prevalence of ASD has led to increased demands on service provision.
This questionnaire-based, descriptive study aimed to explore service use and experiences of
health and education service delivery by caregivers and their children with ASD in
Johannesburg. The sample size was 39. Comparisons were drawn between the experiences of
the participants accessing the private and public service sectors.
Children were diagnosed at an average age of 4 years; 2 years after the first symptoms were
noted by their caregivers. Families accessed a mean of 3 institutions and 6 professionals in
seeking diagnosis and treatment. No specific referral patterns could be established.
Challenges to service access identified by caregivers included: logistical problems, lack of
professional knowledge and experience, poor parental coping and insight, and lack of
community support. Solutions identified by the caregivers included: marketing, training,
better referral procedures, and establishment of educational facilities.
Description
MSc Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 2009
Keywords
caregiver, service provision, autistic disorder, Asperger's Syndrome, dosage