A new model of autism spectrum disorder assessment and diagnosis by multiagency community-based teams in primary schools.

Background: National guidelines stress the importance of early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This pilot investigated the feasibility and acceptability of assessing children in their community.

Method: The pilot study was carried out from August 2007 to January 2009, and the roll-out of the programme started in 2010 and is currently underway. Workers undertook assessments and made a group decision about diagnosis; participant observation of these team meetings explored the decision-making process. Semistructured interviews and focus groups explored the views of parents and professionals.

Results: Seventeen children took part in the study: six were diagnosed with ASD; three as not ASD, and eight were referred for further assessment. The model was found acceptable to parents and workers.

Conclusions: With detailed consideration of administration, information, communication and training requirements, this approach has the potential to increase early diagnosis of ASD and reduce demand for specialist assessment.