Health sector capacity building – National best-practice assessment and diagnosis

Consistent national best‐practice in the assessment and diagnosis of autism involves the comprehensive assessment of goals, strengths, challenges and support needs for the planning and provision of effective supports – not the presence (or otherwise) of a diagnosis. This includes the provision of supports across sectors, whether in early intervention, health, education, employment or other community engagement.

The objectives of this project are to:

• establish sustainable mechanisms for capacity‐building in evidence‐based assessment and diagnosis for each of the relevant Colleges and Societies
• develop protocols for the integration of individual assessment data in support systems across service sectors, such as health, justice and housing.

Autism CRC is developing resource for mainstream professions that will build evidence‐based assessment and diagnosis capacity (consistent with the National Guideline for the Assessment and Diagnosis of Autism in Australia and the evidence base underpinning it) which are accessible, sustainable, rigorous, and able to be monitored. 

Stage 1 of this project is complete with the Short course for clinicians – Implementing the National Guideline for the Assessment and Diagnosis of Autism in Australia, now available through allied health Colleges and Societies. Find out more about the Short course and other resources from our eLearning webpage.

The information generated through effective implementation of the Guideline will empower individuals and families; build capacity and understanding in professionals and services across a range of sectors; and inform community settings design and supports for individuals.