The University of Arizona College of Nursing, supported by an Arizona Complete Health grant, has launched a groundbreaking initiative to improve Early Access To Care Arizona Diagnosis Autism. This innovative program introduces a specialized career track aimed at equipping pediatric nurse practitioners, psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioners, and general practice pediatricians with the expertise needed to diagnose and manage autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Certificate Program stands out as one of the pioneering programs nationwide, directly addressing the pressing healthcare challenge posed by autism.
Autism spectrum disorder, a complex developmental condition impacting communication and interaction skills, affects a significant number of children. Nationally, 1 in 59 children are diagnosed with ASD, and in Arizona, the prevalence is similarly high, with 1 in 71 children affected. Despite the ability to diagnose autism as early as age 2, the median age for diagnosis by community providers in Arizona remains around 5 years old. This new ASD career track is crucial in bridging the gap and increasing the availability of trained clinicians in Arizona capable of providing timely autism diagnoses.
“The earlier the diagnosis, the greater the benefits for children and families,” emphasizes Dr. Gloanna Peek, PhD, RN, CPNP, ASD program coordinator and Clinical Associate Professor at the UArizona College of Nursing. Dr. Peek highlights the program’s unique online format, stating, “One of the most important aspects of our program is its online academic component. This allows us to reach and train clinicians in rural communities, where services are often scarce and the need is greatest.” By leveraging online education, the program aims to expand access to specialized training for healthcare professionals across Arizona, particularly in underserved areas.
Timely diagnosis of autism before the age of 4 is critical for families to fully access essential state services nationwide, as emphasized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In response to this crucial need, the primary focus of the ASD certificate program is to enhance early access to care arizona diagnosis autism for children in Arizona. By training more clinicians, the program aims to reduce diagnostic delays and ensure that children with autism and their families receive the necessary support and interventions as early as possible.
The interdisciplinary program is comprehensive, requiring 12 credit hours over three semesters, including 180 clinical hours and one graduate-level didactic course each semester. The curriculum is meticulously designed to equip pediatric clinicians with the skills to accurately diagnose and effectively manage autism. The inaugural cohort of six students, comprising five nurse practitioners and one pediatrician, commenced their studies in August 2019 and are set to graduate in August 2020. This first group represents the beginning of a sustained effort to build a stronger healthcare workforce specializing in autism care within Arizona.
Dr. Peek collaborated closely with Dr. Sydney Rice, MD, Professor of Pediatrics at the UArizona College of Medicine – Tucson, and Dr. David Harvey, PhD, Principal Consultant at Vantage Point Behavioral Services, in the curriculum development and program implementation. Vantage Point Behavioral Services, along with Arizona Complete Health leaders, has played a vital role in shaping this impactful program. This collaborative approach underscores the program’s commitment to providing high-quality, evidence-based training.
Dean Ida M. “Ki” Moore, PhD, RN, FAAN, of the UArizona College of Nursing, expressed her enthusiasm for the program: “This innovative program will prepare qualified practitioners to effectively address the growing healthcare challenge of autism spectrum disorder. Dr. Peek and her team have developed an exceptional curriculum. We are also deeply grateful to Drs. Rice and Harvey for their expert guidance and to Arizona Complete Health for their crucial financial support, which made the development of this program possible.”
Dr. Scott Van Valkenburg, MD, Chief Medical Director for Arizona Complete Health, highlighted the urgency of the program’s mission: “The average age of autism diagnosis in Arizona is approximately one year behind the national average. Supporting this program at the UArizona College of Nursing is essential for creating a pipeline of skilled healthcare providers who can lower the age of diagnosis for autism in our state. Earlier diagnosis leads to earlier treatment, resulting in improved outcomes and a better quality of life for individuals with autism.”
Dr. Peek further emphasized the program’s broader impact, stating, “Many children are currently undiagnosed, preventing them and their families from accessing necessary services. The ASD certificate program is designed to significantly improve early access to care arizona diagnosis autism for these patients and their families, ensuring they receive the support they need to thrive.” The University of Arizona’s ASD Certificate Program represents a significant step forward in enhancing autism care and support for families across Arizona by focusing on early access to care arizona diagnosis autism.
