Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by challenges in social communication, behavior, and sensory processing. Approximately 1% of the global population is affected by this disorder. Traditionally, autism assessments have been conducted in clinical settings through in-person visits, but in recent years, the trend toward telehealth, or digital evaluations, has grown rapidly.
Since the pandemic, when face-to-face medical visits have become limited, telehealth services have emerged as a viable and safe alternative for evaluating children with autism. This technology has opened a new dimension to the medical world—making communication, behavior observation, and expert consultation possible through a screen.
The Rise of Autism Assessments via Telehealth
The use of telehealth for children’s autism assessments has increased significantly over the past few years. This method has not only been a temporary option during the pandemic, but has now become a systematic and viable healthcare model.
Research has shown that telehealth is not only convenient but also saves time and money. Families are relieved of long travel and clinicians have the opportunity to provide services more efficiently. Furthermore, it has proven to be a major boon for families living in rural or remote areas, as they no longer face difficulties reaching hospitals in larger cities.
Background and Objectives of the Research
Most studies on this topic to date have focused on the feasibility and accuracy of telehealth. However, the experiences, acceptance, and attitudes of families and clinicians have not been systematically explored. To fill this gap, this mixed-methods review was conducted, gathering the views of 1,013 families and 521 clinicians from 27 studies.
The main objectives were:
- To understand the benefits and challenges of autism assessment via telehealth.
- To examine how this system impacts equity or inequity.
- To determine which children this assessment is most appropriate for.
Experiences of families and clinicians
Study participants described telehealth as broadly positive.
Key benefits included:
- Savings on time and travel
- Flexible and convenient appointments
- Improved quality of service
- Quicker assessment and faster results
- A more economically viable option
Families reported that telehealth allowed them to conduct assessments from the comfort of their homes, making it easier to observe children in their natural surroundings. Clinicians also acknowledged that understanding children’s behavior through video or live interaction was, in many cases, as effective as face-to-face meetings.
Challenges and Limitations of Telehealth
Although telehealth has opened up many new possibilities, it has also presented some practical challenges.
Key challenges include:
- Technical difficulties such as internet connection loss or poor video quality.
- Inability to accurately observe certain complex behaviors.
- Language and communication barriers, especially for families who are not proficient in English.
- Concerns about privacy and child safety.
- Questions about medical accuracy, especially in severe or complex cases.
Furthermore, while telehealth has provided convenience to geographically isolated families, it has been challenging for socially and economically disadvantaged families. Families lacking the necessary technological resources, stable internet, or private space have found it less effective.
Which Children Were More Suitable for Telehealth Assessment
According to the review, telehealth is not equally suitable for all children. The research found that:
- This method was more accurate for slightly older children, who tend to be less active and have less complex behaviors.
- Telehealth was effective in evaluating children with clearly visible signs of autism.
- However, traditional assessments were necessary for children with more medical or socio-emotional complexities.
Impact of Telehealth on Social Equity
Telehealth has improved geographic equity in access to healthcare services, but has yielded mixed results in terms of social equity.
Families living in rural or remote areas benefited significantly, but economically disadvantaged families and those with limited technological resources were left behind.
This disparity makes it clear that a “one-size-fits-all” approach to telehealth use cannot be effective. Future strategies are needed to ensure equitable access to technology so that every family can benefit from this modern facility.
Limitations of Traditional Evaluation Processes
Traditional evaluations for autism typically involve long waiting lists, expensive clinical services, and the complexity of multiple steps. On average, a child is only diagnosed by the age of 5.Diagnosis is often delayed, while early symptoms can appear as early as 18 months.
Furthermore, delays arise due to a lack of trained specialists and time-consuming tests. Higher-income families are able to obtain a diagnosis earlier, while families with fewer resources face greater difficulties.
Telehealth offers a solution to these challenges—lower cost, faster access, and greater flexibility.
Study Methodology and Findings
This review followed the mixed-method guidelines of the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). The analysis combined both quantitative and qualitative data.
After reviewing a total of 11,788 research articles, 27 studies were finally included, covering data from different countries, age groups, and conditions. The results concluded that most families and clinicians were satisfied with telehealth and consider it to be part of the future of healthcare.
Future Directions and Need for Improvement
Although telehealth has made significant progress in the field of autism assessment, further research is necessary to make it more effective.
- New technical frameworks should be developed to increase accuracy in complex cases.
- Technological access and training should be ensured for families from all walks of life.
- Adaptive assessment models should be developed, taking into account language diversity and cultural contexts.
Conclusion: A New Definition of Autism Assessment in the Digital Age
This comprehensive review clearly demonstrates that telehealth is now the future of healthcare. This technology has not only saved time and resources in the assessment of complex disorders like autism, but has also facilitated and empowered families’ experiences.
Although technological limitations and social inequalities remain obstacles, if these challenges are addressed, telehealth will not only make medical services more equitable, affordable, and accessible, but will also be a significant step towards timely diagnosis and a better future for children.
