Regarding the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation on Autism Screening
The National Autism Association believes there should be universal screening for — and early identification of — signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in very young children. Early screening for ASD and swift intervention is not only crucial for a young child’s overall development, but critical for their longterm health and safety. As USPSTF has pointed out, the M-CHAT/F and M-CHAT-R/F are strong screening tools with an initial process of 5 to 10 minutes. There is virtually no risk in using these screening tools, yet they yield high-impact benefits should a young child demonstrate signs of ASD. All physicians should be equipped with these tools, and all children should be given equal access to effective early intervention if so needed. We continue to strongly urge that all children be screened for ASD.
To read the complete USPSTF document released earlier today, please click here.
