A study from Kennedy Krieger Institute’s Center for Autism Services found that a new screening tool is helping children get autism diagnoses faster, especially in communities that don’t have easy access to care.
The study, published in Pediatric Investigation, focuses on a tool called the Rapid Interactive Screening Test for Autism in Toddlers (RITA-T). RITA-T is a quick test that looks at skills like social interaction and how kids respond to others, which are often affected in children with autism. Unlike other methods that ask parents to fill out forms, RITA-T watches the child directly, making it better at spotting autism.
This tool is especially helpful for families in rural areas, lower-income communities, and families who speak languages other than English. It helps find autism in children as young as 18 months.
Key points from the study include:
- Children tested with RITA-T got their diagnosis 67 days faster than those who used traditional methods.
- Families with lower incomes were more likely to be identified using RITA-T, helping reduce differences in how autism is diagnosed.
- Children who used RITA-T had to travel farther for their tests, but the tool was successful in reaching communities with fewer resources.
Dr. Roula Choueiri, who led the study, stressed the importance of diagnosing autism early so kids can get help right away. “Many families have to wait a long time to see specialists,” said Dr. Choueiri. “RITA-T is quick, easy to use, and only takes about 20 minutes. Once a child is found to have autism, families can quickly get the help they need.”
The study looked at 394 toddlers diagnosed with autism. It showed that kids who were tested with RITA-T got their evaluations faster than those who used traditional methods. It also showed that RITA-T helped more families in underserved and rural areas.
Dr. Choueiri said, “The results show that RITA-T works. If more doctors use this tool, we can find autism earlier, help reduce gaps in care, and get kids the support they need sooner.”
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