A Framework for Developing a Curriculum Regarding Autism Spectrum Disorders for Primary Care Providers.

Introduction: The prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) has increased and varies across age groups. Thus there is an increasing need for educational opportunities for General Practitioners (GPs) and other Primary Care providers to help in early identification and referral to specialist services. An earlier survey of GPs in New South Wales (Australia) demonstrated two broad domains for educational activities: (1) a general knowledge (important for early identification and referral) and (2) surveillance (important for ongoing management).

An Exploratory Survey for Understanding Perceptions, Knowledge and Educational Needs of General Practitioners (GSs) Regarding Autistic Disorders in New South Wales (NSW), Australia.

Aim: A survey was conducted to ascertain General Practitioners (GPs') perceptions, knowledge and educational needs regarding autistic disorders in childhood.

Methods: A concurrent mixed method approach was used for data collection and analysis. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) of the data was done and groups were compared using appropriate statistical tests.

Breaking away from the medical model: perceptions of health and health care in suburban Sydney youth.

Objectives: To identify perceptions of health, health concerns, and health service needs among young people in a suburb of Sydney, New South Wales.

Design: Qualitative study using focus groups.

Setting: Berowra, a geographically isolated suburb on the outskirts of Sydney, between December 2002 and April 2003.