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2019-11-20
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Copyright (c) 2019 Elizabeth Griffith, Christian Clesi, Sarah O'Kelley, Fred Biasini
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Community Education Workshops Aimed at Reducing Health Disparities and Bridging Gaps in Health Care for the Autism Spectrum Disorder Population
Elizabeth Griffith, MSW, LMSW, MPH (c)
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Christian Clesi, MA, PhD (c)
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Sarah O'Kelley, PhD
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Fred Biasini, PhD
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disability characterized by impairment in social communication and interaction, as well as restricted and repetitive behaviors and interests. Effective, evidence-based treatments include intensive interventions targeting behavior, language and social relatedness and are necessary to propel those affected by ASD towards better health outcomes in adulthood but are often difficult for families to access due to socioeconomic and psychosocial barriers. The University of Alabama at Birmingham Regional Autism Network developed free, monthly parent training called Community Education Workshops aimed at bridging gaps in care for the ASD population by educating parents and providers on specific issues related to ASD and providing tangible skills and tailored action that can be implemented in the home. These workshops provide a connection point for underserved and minority populations in Alabama and aim to reduce health disparities and improve health equity of all affected by ASD in Alabama.
Author Biographies
Elizabeth Griffith, MSW, LMSW, MPH (c), University of Alabama at Birmingham
University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of Pediatrics and School of Public Health; Director of the UAB Regional Autism Network at the Civitan-Sparks Clinics and Teaching Assistant for Health Sciences in the School of Public Health
Christian Clesi, MA, PhD (c), University of Alabama at Birmingham
University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of Psychology; Civitan-Sparks Clinics
Sarah O'Kelley, PhD , University of Alabama at Birmingham
Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology and Pediatrics;Director of the Autism Spectrum Disorders Clinic at the Civitan-Sparks Clinics
Fred Biasini, PhD, University of Alabama at Birmingham
Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology and Pediatrics; Associate Director and Director of Interdisciplinary Training at the Civitan-Sparks Clinics
