The Integrated Center for Autism Spectrum Disorder (iCASD), a division of the University of Nebraska Medical Center, has introduced a groundbreaking advancement in the clinical process of autism diagnostic appointments for young children. This new technology promises to significantly enhance how experts conduct evaluations, making the process more efficient and accessible.
The technology in question is a specialized tablet called EarliPoint Evaluation for Autism. During an autism diagnostic appointment, the child interacts with the tablet, which plays videos of various social interactions designed to capture the child’s eye movements. This process, which takes about 20 minutes, allows clinicians to gather valuable data on the child’s reactions and engagement. By tracking these eye movements, the device provides critical insights into the child’s social behavior and developmental patterns.
Thanks to EarliPoint, autism diagnostic appointments that once typically spanned four hours can now be completed in just over one hour. This leap in efficiency is a gamechanger, offering much-needed relief for both parents and clinicians alike.
“There’s so many good things that are going to come from using this device,” said Patricia Zemantic, a behavior analyst at UNMC’s iCASD. “I just think we’re going to be able to see kids so much faster and diagnose them so much earlier so that they can get services right away.”
Zemantic is working closely with iCASD director Alice Shillingsburg to analyze how accurately and efficiently EarliPoint can assist in diagnosing autism in children aged 3 to 7. Their goal is to determine whether this device can not only speed up the diagnostic process but also improve its precision, ensuring that children receive the necessary services at an earlier stage of their development.
Shillingsburg pointed out the critical issue of long waitlists for autism diagnoses, an issue that is prevalent not just in Nebraska, but nationally as well. However, due to Nebraska’s rural landscape, the potential benefits of EarliPoint are even more pronounced. “In some regard, this is something that probably most states in the nation would benefit from,” Shillingsburg said. “But, in Nebraska as well, I think because we are a rural state, I think that there are some additional benefits to potentially extending the reach to places in the state where there may not be as much access to an expert clinician and can really be a benefit to those families.”
The introduction of EarliPoint is being hailed as a revolutionary step in early autism diagnosis. The tablet has already received FDA approval and has been rigorously tested to ensure its effectiveness and reliability. At present, the Munroe-Meyer Institute under UNMC is the only site in Nebraska where this technology is being used clinically, and its success could set a precedent for other regions across the country.
Overall, the EarliPoint Evaluation for Autism tablet is poised to transform the landscape of autism diagnostics, making it quicker, more accurate, and more accessible. This could dramatically reduce the wait times for autism diagnostic appointments and provide earlier access to crucial interventions for children, giving them the best possible start in their developmental journey.
Transform Your Life with Silver Swing ABA
Looking for expert autism services in Nebraska? At Silver Swing ABA, we are dedicated to providing personalized ABA therapy designed to make a difference. Our compassionate team uses evidence-based techniques to help individuals on the autism spectrum thrive in everyday situations. With a focus on long-term progress and success, we work alongside families to create meaningful change. Ready to see how ABA therapy can improve your loved one’s life? Reach out to Silver Swing ABA today and start the journey toward a brighter, more independent future. Contact us for more information!
