Telehealth and autism: A systematic search and review of the literature

Loading...
Thumbnail Image
File version

Accepted Manuscript (AM)

Author(s)
Sutherland, Rebecca
Trembath, David
Roberts, Jacqueline
Griffith University Author(s)
Primary Supervisor
Other Supervisors
Editor(s)
Date
2018
Size
File type(s)
Location
License
Abstract

Purpose: Research interest in telehealth and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has grown. There is a need to review the literature to allow speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and other service providers to consider applicability to their settings. The aim of this review was to examine the nature and outcomes of studies examining telehealth assessment and/or intervention in ASD.

Method: A systematic search of the literature was undertaken, with 14 studies meeting inclusion criteria. The authors extracted information from each included article, including participant characteristics, technology used, measures and reported outcomes. Quality review of articles was undertaken.

Result: The 284 participants with ASD across the 14 included studies ranged in age from 19 months to adulthood. The quality of the studies varied. A range of services were provided via telehealth, including diagnostic assessments, early intervention and language therapy. Results suggested that services delivered via telehealth were equivalent to services delivered face to face, and superior to comparison groups without telehealth sessions.

Conclusion: The findings suggest there may be a range of benefits in using telehealth with individuals with ASD, their families, and teachers. Further research, however, is required particularly regarding the use of telehealth directly with children with ASD for assessment and intervention.

Journal Title

International Journal of Speech-Language Pathology

Conference Title
Book Title
Edition
Volume

20

Issue

3

Thesis Type
Degree Program
School
Publisher link
Patent number
Funder(s)
Grant identifier(s)
Rights Statement
Rights Statement

© 2018 Taylor & Francis. This is an Accepted Manuscript of an article published by Taylor & Francis in International Journal of Speech-Language Pathology on 30 Apr 2018, available online: https://doi.org/10.1080/17549507.2018.1465123

Item Access Status
Note
Access the data
Related item(s)
Subject

Clinical sciences

Cognitive and computational psychology

Cognition

Linguistics

Allied health and rehabilitation science

Persistent link to this record
Citation
Collections