Community implementation of a brief parent mediated intervention for toddlers with probable or confirmed autism spectrum disorder: feasibility, acceptability, and drivers of success (IE Drmic et al.).

Background

Social ABCs is a caregiver-mediated Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Intervention for toddlers with confirmed/suspected Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), with evidence in controlled research settings. Information is lacking on implementation in community settings. We reported on the treatment effectiveness of this program within a community setting, and the current paper describes the implementation phase of this work. Distinguishing between treatment and implementation effectiveness is critical for transporting interventions from laboratory to community.

Objectives

Describe the implementation of Social ABCs through a large public autism service, supported by a research-community partnership.

Methods

We describe this project through the Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, Sustainment (EPIS) framework as it focuses on implementation of evidence-based practices in publicly funded services. We apply this framework to the reporting stage. This project took place in the context of a 3-year government-funded pilot at a hospital-based publicly funded autism service.

Results

Six coaches were trained to fidelity, and three of these were further trained as Site Trainers. 183 clinically referred families enrolled and 89.4% completed the 12-week program. Caregivers reported increases in adherence and competence, high satisfaction and perceived benefits for their children. Coaches reported high satisfaction. Toddlers were appropriately identified to receive the intervention. Referral processes improved, including decreased referral age, and increased family readiness for diagnostic assessment and subsequent services.

Conclusions

Social ABCs was successfully implemented in a community service through a research-community partnership. The program was feasible, acceptable, and appropriate within a community context. Drivers of success included funding, institutional support, shared decision-making, adaptations to fit context, leadership support, perceived positive impact, and commitment to evaluation.

Informations de copyright

© 2024 Drmic, Brian, Roncadin, Shaver, Pase, Rugajs, Tofano, Dowds, Zwaigenbaum, Smith and Bryson.

Déclaration de conflit d'intérêts

JB and SB co-developed the Social ABCs intervention. Neither party receives any royalties from its use, but we recognize the potential for reputational bias. The remaining authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.