Mental healthcare providers’ views on working with children with autism spectrum disorder in Uganda

• In Event: Poster Session 12
  In Poster Session: PS 12 Topic - Developmental Disabilities

Abstract

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a common developmental disorder with poorer outcomes in low-resource countries such as Uganda. However, diagnosis and management of this disorder remain poorly understood in many low-income African countries. To date, no published study has examined how early childhood mental healthcare providers currently approach diagnosis and treatment of ASD in Uganda. This study explored the experiences of clinicians working with children with ASD and their families to identify issues or areas in need of improvement.

Methods: Semi-structured qualitative interviews with individual clinicians (n=6) were conducted and explored using thematic analysis.

Results: The findings suggest that many clinicians lack the expertise and resources to diagnose and treat behavioural problems experienced by children with ASD. At present, diagnosis and management are based on previous experiences of clinicians rather than evidence-based, systematic clinical approach. Clinicians also reported that most families of children with ASD have limited understanding about the disorder and its treatments.

Conclusion: Further research is required to examine effective capacity building programmes for clinicians and to empirically assess potentially relevant screening, diagnostic and intervention approaches that can be implemented to improve services for children with ASD and their families.

Keywords: autism spectrum disorder, mental health workers, qualitative interviews, East Africa

Authors

• Emmanuel Bonney, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
  Presenting Author

• Michele Villalobos, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
  Non-Presenting Author

• Collin Ogara
  Non-Presenting Author

• Jed T. Elison, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
  Non-Presenting Author

• Catherine Abbo
  Non-Presenting Author