Document Type
Presentation -- MUSC Only
Publication Date
2024
Faculty Mentor
Zesarae Bodie
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: There has been an increase in the understanding of autism-spectrum disorder (ASD) and corresponding occupational therapy (OT) interventions; however, much of this has yet to be implemented in several resource-limited countries, including Bolivia. Parent-mediated interventions (PMIs) are being heralded as a promising approach to address this gap. Through the creation of toolkits for non-specialized personnel (e.g., parents, teachers), the purpose of this quality improvement (QI) project is to enhance the occupational engagement and quality of life for children with ASD and their families in La Paz, Bolivia. METHODS: Pre-surveys were administered to parents of children with ASD at the sites to determine beneficial topics for the toolkits. Post-toolkit development, a self-report questionnaire was administered to healthcare professionals who reviewed and will distribute the toolkits to nonspecialized personnel. These surveys consisted of a variety of question types to acquire data, which was analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative methods. RESULTS: The findings indicate that the toolkits were found to be helpful, and the healthcare providers plan to share them with other non-specialized personnel. Qualitatively, there were reports of the toolkits being useful and easy to replicate; however, concerns were presented for ease of mass dissemination and comprehensibility for parents. CONCLUSION: This toolkit intervention for non-specialized personnel is viewed as a helpful and effective option among healthcare providers in Bolivia for reducing the gaps surrounding access to clinic-based services. The QI project supports the targeted goal for this population, and the sustainability allows for the continuation of this project.
Recommended Citation
Mahoney, Margaret, "The Development of Intervention Toolkits for Non-Specialized Personnel and Families of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in La Paz, Bolivia" (2024). Entry-Level Occupational Therapy Doctorate - Doctoral Capstone Symposium. 31.
https://medica-musc.researchcommons.org/muscotd-elotd/31
Abstract