Screening for Autism Spectrum Disorders During Well-Child Visits in a Primary Care Setting

Early identification and intervention in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) result in improved outcomes.1 Screening for ASDs was implemented during well-child visits. The Iowa Model, the Chronic Care Model, and the DNP Systems Change Model were used as quality improvement frameworks. The Infant-Toddler Checklist2 and the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers3 were used to screen 29 children 9 to 30 months old. Two children were identified who needed early childhood intervention. Buy-in, timing, electronic health records, and choice of screening tools should be considered for successful integration of ASD screening into well-child visits.