The economic case for early interventions for children with autism

Background and objectives: Early interventions for children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) provide support early in development with potential positive impact in both the short and longer term. While various approaches... [ view full abstract ]

Background and objectives: Early interventions for children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) provide support early in development with potential positive impact in both the short and longer term. While various approaches to early intervention have been suggested (and continue to develop), and while evidence on their effectiveness is gradually accumulating, the economic evidence is still scarce. The aim of our work is to examine the economic case for early interventions for children with ASDs and/or their families.

Methodology: We reviewed the evidence on effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of early interventions for children with ASDs. We then used simulation modelling and also examined economic questions in other ways. Experts were consulted about the relevance of early interventions, studies currently underway, the relevance and significance of the evidence found, and the availability of the parameters needed for our own simulation analyses.

Results: Preliminary results found quite a large evidence base, mainly on effectiveness. Only a few studies reported economic information, much of which was hard to generalise beyond the special research setting. Moreover, despite common elements, the heterogeneity of models and their personalisation made it difficult to extend the results to all types of ASDs. The findings of the economic analyses will be reported.

Conclusions: Understanding the economic implications of early interventions for children with ASDs and/or their families is paramount to help policy makers and commissioners decide how to allocate scarce resources.