Caregivers' experiences of service provision for their children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder

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Date

2010-06-28T10:39:15Z

Authors

Hooper, Jennifer Jane

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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

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