Agreement between concern about autism spectrum disorder at the time of referral and diagnosis, and factors associated with agreement

Abstract

Aim: This study examined the level of agreement between referral reason and diagnostic outcome for pre-school aged children showing developmental delays and differences. In particular, the level of agreement when there was concern about autism spectrum disorder (ASD) was investigated. Methods: Clinical records for children (n = 677) assessed for developmental concerns at a multidisciplinary assessment clinic in Sydney, Australia, were examined. Referral reason and diagnostic outcome were compared. Referral sources and factors including age, developmental level and language functioning, were explored for potential association with the consistency between referral reason and diagnosis. Results..