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Cheak-Zamora N, Golzy M, Mandy T, Deroche C. Developing and Psychometric Testing a Health Care Transition Service Measure in the National Survey of Children's Health. Acad Pediatr 2024; 24:243-253. [PMID: 37247839 DOI: 10.1016/j.acap.2023.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Access to health care transition (HCT) services has been included in national surveys for 20 years. While dozens of studies have assessed HCT, no study has examined the model fit of the HCT questions or psychometric properties of the measure. We utilized National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH) data to develop and test a comprehensive HCT measure. METHODS We utilized NSCH data (2016-19) to examine the model fit of 9 HCT questions. The new measure's psychometric properties were assessed by comparing it to theoretically similar and divergent variables including receiving care coordination/help, shared-decision making, satisfaction with communication, preventative dental care, and volunteer experience. RESULTS An exploratory factor analysis and item culling yielded 8 items addressing 3 subscales. A confirmatory factor analysis on separate data confirmed the identified subscales. A dichotomous and continuous scale was created with subscales including Guidance Toward Independence, Adequate Clinic Visit, and Continuity of Care Discussions. Model fit was excellent with an Eigenvalue of 1.08% and 89% variance explained in exploratory factor analysis and a Goodness of Fit index of 0.97 in confirmatory factor analysis. Examination of initial reliability and content and criterion validity indicated high reliability and validity for the scale and subscales. CONCLUSIONS This was the first study to examine the psychometric properties of the HCT measure in the NSCH. The HCT measure identified in this study assesses providers' use of care plans, promotion of independence, clinic visit quality, and transfer assistance. This measure will be a useful tool in clinics, intervention development, and research for adolescents with and without special health care needs.retain-->.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Cheak-Zamora
- Department of Health Professions (N Cheak-Zamora), School of Health Professions, University of Missouri-Columbia.
| | - Mojgan Golzy
- Biostatistics Unit, Department of Family and Community Medicine (M Golzy), School of Medicine, University of Missouri-Columbia
| | - Trevor Mandy
- Department of Health Management and Informatics (T Mandy), School of Medicine, University of Missour-Columbia
| | - Chelsea Deroche
- Department of Family and Community Medicine (C Deroche), School of Medicine, University of Missouri-Columbia
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Malow BA, Mazurek M, Stobbe G, Agrawal MM, Loftin R, Caudel D, Hess A, Westphal A, Smith J, Shouse J, Cheak-Zamora N, Sohl K. ECHO autism adult healthcare: Training community clinicians to provide quality care for autistic adults. Autism Res 2023; 16:1619-1629. [PMID: 37519223 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Autistic adults experience significant unmet healthcare needs, with opportunities for improvement in both the systems and the practitioners who serve this population. Primary care physicians/practitioners (PCPs) are a natural choice to provide comprehensive care to autistic adults but often lack experience in serving this population. This pilot study developed and tested an Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) Autism model adapted from our previous work, focused specifically on training PCPs in best-practice care for autistic adults. The project was informed directly by the perspectives and preferences of autistic adults, caregivers, and PCPs. Two consecutive cohorts of PCPs participated in ECHO Autism Adult Healthcare sessions. Each cohort met 1 h twice a month for 6 months, with 37 PCPs (n = 20 in Cohort 1, and n = 17 in Cohort 2) participating. Based on findings from the first cohort, adjustments were made to refine the session preparation, curriculum, conduct of the ECHO, resources, and evaluation. After participation in the ECHO Autism program, PCP self-efficacy and satisfaction improved, while the number of perceived barriers did not change. Knowledge did not improve significantly in Cohort 1, but after adjustments to the training model, participants in Cohort 2 showed significant knowledge gains. While attention to systems of care is critical to addressing barriers in healthcare in the autistic population, the ECHO Autism Adult Healthcare model is feasible and holds promise for improving PCP satisfaction and self-efficacy in working with autistic adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth A Malow
- Sleep Disorders Division, Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Micah Mazurek
- Department of Human Services, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Gary Stobbe
- Center on Human Development and Disability, Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Mavara M Agrawal
- Department of Humanities, Health and Society, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Rachel Loftin
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - David Caudel
- Frist Center for Autism and Innovation, Department of Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Amy Hess
- Behavioral Health, Child Development Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Alexander Westphal
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Joshua Smith
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Janet Shouse
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Nancy Cheak-Zamora
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Kristin Sohl
- Department of Child Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, Missouri, USA
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Mazurek MO, Sadikova E, Cheak-Zamora N, Hardin A, Sohl K, Malow BA. Health Care Needs, Experiences, and Perspectives of Autistic Adults. Autism Adulthood 2023; 5:51-62. [PMID: 36941853 PMCID: PMC10024270 DOI: 10.1089/aut.2021.0069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background Autistic adults have high rates of co-occurring health conditions, suicide, and premature mortality, yet often experience health care barriers and poor health outcomes. A better understanding of the health care needs and experiences of autistic adults is essential for improving the health care system and patient experience. Methods This study examined the perspectives of autistic adults regarding their health care experiences in primary care and other settings and their suggestions for improvement using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Twenty autistic adults (aged 18-35 years, 65% male) completed surveys and individual semi-structured interviews. Results Qualitative data analysis results revealed 10 subthemes across 3 overarching themes: (1) system- and clinic-level factors affect access to care, (2) aspects of the clinic environment affect health care experiences, and (3) provider knowledge and practices affect health care experiences. Within the first theme, participants described barriers to obtaining services, including scheduling logistics, costs and inadequate insurance coverage, and transportation barriers. The second theme focused on aspects of the clinic environment that participants found especially relevant to their health care experiences and that required specific accommodations. This included sensory input, anxiety-provoking situations and procedures, and wait time. Within the third theme, participants emphasized aspects of providers' care that affected their health care experiences. Key factors included provider knowledge about autism, communication, rapport, and individualized care and patient-provider partnerships. Conclusion Overall, the findings point to a need for provider training and improvements to the health care delivery system to better meet the unique needs of autistic adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micah O. Mazurek
- Department of Human Services, School of Education and Human Development, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Eleonora Sadikova
- Department of Human Services, School of Education and Human Development, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Nancy Cheak-Zamora
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Amber Hardin
- Supporting Transformative Autism Research (STAR) Initiative, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Kristin Sohl
- Department of Child Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Beth A. Malow
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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Cheak-Zamora N, Odunleye O. Stress and Coping in Autistic Young Adults. Autism Adulthood 2022; 4:193-202. [PMID: 36606158 PMCID: PMC9645673 DOI: 10.1089/aut.2021.0043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Half a million autistic youth will enter adulthood over the next decade. Support services to help youth successfully transition into adulthood are limited and not tailored to the autistic youth and young adult's needs. This study utilized qualitative methods to understand how autistic young adults experience and cope with stress during the transition to adulthood. Methods The study recruited 15 autistic young adults aged 18-25 years. Each participant completed a short demographic survey and individual interview. Interviews were conducted online via Google Docs or in-person based on the participants' preference. Three researchers organized and coded the data using a thematic approach. Results Based on our analysis, three themes emerged. Within the first theme, young adults in this study described experiencing a great deal of stress and provided examples of how it manifested in physical and emotional ways. In the second theme, youth described that the causes of this stress stemmed from general problems handling new or multiple responsibilities and specific problems in school, work, financial responsibilities, and social relationships. Finally, young adults described using various coping mechanisms including relaxation techniques, use of technology, and friends and family social support. Conclusions The study findings can help service providers and family members find new ways to help autistic young adults manage their stress. This study provides a unique understanding of stress and coping from the autistic individuals' point of view. Stress is most often derived from managing new responsibilities in general and school, work, money, and relationships in particular. Tailored support services that follow the individual from adolescence through adulthood are needed to manage these stressors. Researchers and service providers can utilize these recommendations for future program development. Furthermore, the method used in this study can be replicated to facilitate autistic individual input on future program development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Cheak-Zamora
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Health Professions, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Olakunle Odunleye
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Health Professions, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
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Cheak-Zamora N, Betz C, Mandy T. Measuring health care transition: Across time and into the future. J Pediatr Nurs 2022; 64:91-101. [PMID: 35248956 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2022.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
PROBLEM Youth with special health care needs often experience significant difficulty transitioning into adult health care services and adult life. Services supporting youths' transition from pediatric to adult health care (Health Care Transition (HCT)) have been a priority for nearly 30 years to improve this transition process. The Health Resources and Service Administration, Maternal and Child Health Bureau have measured HCT service provision since 2001 but the longitudinal use of this measure has never been examined (Blumberg, 2003; Maternal and Child Health Bureau, n.d.). ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA This manuscript highlights the consistent and inconsistent uses of HCT constructs in two prominent national surveys (the National Survey of Children with Special Health Care Needs (NS-CSHCN) and the National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH)) between 2001 and 2019. All studies utilizing an HCT measure within a national survey between the 18 years were included in this examination. RESULTS Significant changes have been made to the measurement of HCT service provision resulting in inconsistencies over the last 18 years. Measurement criteria and survey questions have changed substantially from the NS-CSHCN and NSCH limiting one's ability to examine trends in HCT since 2001. Since 2016, few changes have been made, allowing for analysis of trends over time. Importantly, the NSCH includes added questions pertaining to HCT that are not included in the composite HCT outcome measure. CONCLUSION Future work should include a validation study of the HCT outcome in the National Survey of Children's Health and inclusion of additional HCT questions to promote continued and extensive use of a measure that more fully represents the needs of youth and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Cheak-Zamora
- Department of Health Professions, School of Health Professions, University of Missouri- Columbia, 510 Clark Hall, Columbia, MO 65211, United States of America.
| | - Cecily Betz
- University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, University of Southern California, 4650 Sunset Blvd. Mailstop 53, Los Angeles, CA 90027, United States of America.
| | - Trevor Mandy
- Department of Health Management and Informatics, School of Medicine, University of Missouri- Columbia, 510 Clark Hall, Columbia, MO 65211, United States of America.
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Cheak-Zamora N, Tait A, Coleman A. Assessing and Promoting Independence in Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Dev Behav Pediatr 2022; 43:130-139. [PMID: 34636359 DOI: 10.1097/dbp.0000000000001021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Quality of life, independence, and employment outcomes are poor for young adults with autism spectrum disorder (YA-ASD). This study explored the desires and experiences of YA-ASD as they transition into adulthood. METHODS Fifteen YA-ASD, age 18 to 25 years, were recruited from autism spectrum disorder centers, participant registries, and social media advertising. Interested individuals completed a survey and individual interview. Semistructured interview guides included questions about transition experiences, current independence, and future goals. Interview transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS The desire of young adults with autism spectrum disorder for independence was shown within 4 themes. YA-ASD described their vision of adulthood along with their need for improved skills in driving, living independently, and decision-making. CONCLUSION The findings indicate YA-ASD desire to be independent but lack the specific support services to get there.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Cheak-Zamora
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Health Professions, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO
| | - Andrew Tait
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO
| | - Ann Coleman
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Health Professions, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO
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Carlisle GK, Johnson RA, Koch CS, Lyons LA, Wang Z, Bibbo J, Cheak-Zamora N. Exploratory Study of Fecal Cortisol, Weight, and Behavior as Measures of Stress and Welfare in Shelter Cats During Assimilation Into Families of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:643803. [PMID: 34552969 PMCID: PMC8450387 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.643803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Cats are a common companion animal (CA) in US households, and many live in families of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The prevalence of ASD is one in 54, and many children have behavior challenges as well as their diagnostic communication disorders. Objective: Benefits of CAs for children with ASD have been identified, but little is known about the welfare of CAs in these homes. This study explored the welfare of cats (N = 10) screened for ideal social and calm temperament using the Feline Temperament Profile (FTP) and adopted by families of children with ASD. Methods: Cat stress was measured using fecal cortisol, weight, and a behavior stress measure (cat stress score). Measures were taken at baseline in the shelter, 2-3 days after adoption, and at weeks 6, 12, and 18. Result: Outcome measures suggested the adopted cats' stress levels did not increase postadoption; however, the small sample size limited analytical power and generalizability. Conclusion: This study provides preliminary evidence for the success of cat adoption by families of children with ASD, when cats have been temperament screened and cat behavior educational information is provided. Further research is warranted to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gretchen K. Carlisle
- University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine Research Center for Human-Animal Interaction, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Rebecca A. Johnson
- University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine Research Center for Human-Animal Interaction, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Colleen S. Koch
- Animal Behavior Services, Lincoln Land Animal Clinic, Jacksonville, IL, United States
| | - Leslie A. Lyons
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Ze Wang
- University of Missouri Department of Educational, School and Counseling Psychology, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Jessica Bibbo
- Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging, Center for Research and Education, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Nancy Cheak-Zamora
- University of Missouri School of Health Professions, Columbia, MO, United States
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Carlisle GK, Johnson RA, Wang Z, Bibbo J, Cheak-Zamora N, Lyons LA. Exploratory Study of Cat Adoption in Families of Children with Autism: Impact on Children's Social Skills and Anxiety. J Pediatr Nurs 2021; 58:28-35. [PMID: 33290937 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2020.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) occurs in one in 54 children and companion animals (CA) are common in families of children with ASD. Despite evidence of CA ownership benefits for children with ASD, little is known about cats. The purpose was to explore the impact of shelter cat adoption by families of children with ASD. DESIGN AND METHODS This was the first randomized controlled trial of adoption of a temperament screened cat by families of children with ASD. Families assigned to the treatment group adopted a cat and were followed for 18 weeks. Families assigned to the control group were followed for 18 weeks without intervention, then converted to treatment, by adopting a cat and were followed another 18 weeks. Adopted cats were screened using the Feline Temperament Profile to identify a calm temperament. Surveys measured children's social skills and anxiety and parent/child cat bonding. RESULTS Our study (N = 11) found cat adoption was associated with greater Empathy and less Separation Anxiety for children with ASD, along with fewer problem behaviors including Externalizing, Bullying and Hyperactivity/Inattention. Parents and children reported strong bonds to the cats. CONCLUSION This exploratory study found introduction of a cat into the home may have a positive impact on children with ASD and their parents. Based on this intial finding, future studies with larger sample sizes are recommended. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS If parents of children with ASD are considering cat adoption, health care providers might consider recommending adoption of a cat screened for calm temperament.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gretchen K Carlisle
- Research Center for Human-Animal Interaction, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, MO, USA.
| | - Rebecca A Johnson
- Research Center for Human-Animal Interaction, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, MO, USA
| | - Ze Wang
- Educational, School and Counseling Psychology, University of Missouri, MO, USA
| | - Jessica Bibbo
- Center for Research and Education, Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging, OH, USA
| | | | - Leslie A Lyons
- Department of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, MO, USA
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Cheak-Zamora N, Farmer JG, Crossman MK, Malow BA, Mazurek MO, Kuhlthau K, Stobbe G, Loftin R, Mirza-Agrawal M, Tapia M, Hess A, Davis K, Sohl K. Provider Perspectives on the Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes Autism: Transition to Adulthood Program. J Dev Behav Pediatr 2021; 42:91-100. [PMID: 33044397 DOI: 10.1097/dbp.0000000000000872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite their complex health care needs, transition-aged youth diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (TAY-ASD) receive few transition services and describe difficulty finding adult providers. A 12-week primary care provider (PCP) training was developed to improve the delivery of transition services for TAY-ASD [Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) Autism: Transition to Adulthood program]. The current study examines the PCPs' perspectives and experiences of the program and application of the training material. METHODS This study used a qualitative descriptive framework to explore the experiences and perspectives of 10 PCPs who completed the ECHO Autism: Transition to Adulthood program. Semistructured focus groups, conducted through Zoom videoconferencing, were used to explore these topics. RESULTS Three overarching categories were identified: (1) beneficial and influential aspects of the ECHO, (2) perceived challenges, and (3) suggestions for improvements and adjustments. Overall, participants found the program highly beneficial, describing an increased sense of community and comprehensive recommendations from a multidisciplinary team. Challenges included difficulties participating in the program during clinical hours and difficulties meeting the educational needs of participants with a wide range of previous experience caring for TAY-ASD. Recommendations included embedding the location-specific material into the program to account for regional differences and the use of an online platform for participants to ask questions and discuss issues outside of the regular sessions. CONCLUSION The study results can inform the development and implementation of new virtual PCP trainings and future ECHOs, including the revision and broad implementation of the ongoing ECHO Autism: Transition to Adulthood program.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Justin G Farmer
- Department of General Academic Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Morgan K Crossman
- Building Bright Futures, Department of General Academic Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA
| | - Beth A Malow
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Micah O Mazurek
- Department of Human Services, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA
| | - Karen Kuhlthau
- Department of General Academic Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Gary Stobbe
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Rachel Loftin
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Mavara Mirza-Agrawal
- Department of Humanities, Health and Society, Embrace Initiative, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL
| | - Mark Tapia
- Department of Special Education, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX
| | - Amy Hess
- Child Development Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH
| | | | - Kristin Sohl
- Department of Child Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO
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Cheak-Zamora N, Petroski G, La Manna A, Beversdorf D, Farmer J. Validation of the Health-Related Independence for Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder Measure- Caregiver Version. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 51:2036-2046. [PMID: 32892234 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04690-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Little is known about Young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (YA-ASD) health, healthcare and safety needs. This study describes the validation of a health care transition measure for YA-ASD, the Health-Related Independence (HRI). We collected data from caregivers (n = 490) at five Autism Treatment Network sites and compared the psychometric properties of HRI to the gold standard (STARx) and other validated measures. A Confirmatory Factor Analysis and item culling resulted in 30 items addressing six subscales. Content, criterion, and construct validity and internal consistency indicated high validity and reliability for the scale and subscales. HRI is a validated caregiver-report measure of YA-ASD's self-management, safety, and transition skills. This novel measure will be a useful tool in clinics, intervention development, and research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Cheak-Zamora
- Department of Health Professions, School of Health Professions, University of Missouri, 510 Clark Hall, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA.
| | - Greg Petroski
- Department of Health Management and Informatics, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, USA
| | - Anna La Manna
- Department of Social Work, University of Missouri, Columbia, USA
| | - David Beversdorf
- Department of Radiology, Neurology and Psychology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, USA
| | - Janet Farmer
- School of Health Professions, University of Missouri, Columbia, USA
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Cheak-Zamora N, Teti M, Tait A. Development and Initial Testing of a Health-Related Independence Measure for Autistic Young Adults as Reported by Caregivers. Autism Adulthood 2020; 2:255-267. [PMID: 36601440 PMCID: PMC8992871 DOI: 10.1089/aut.2019.0072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Background Becoming an adult comes with education, work, living, and health-related transitions. Health care transition (HCT) services help adolescents prepare for a smooth transition to adult care, ensure health insurance retention, and promote adolescents' independent management of health care and life needs. Lack of HCT services can result in negative outcomes such as unmet needs, overmedication, and loss of decision-making authority. Autistic young adults (AYA) are half as likely to receive HCT services compared with special needs young adults. Furthermore, there are no HCT readiness measures that address the unique needs of AYA. Methods This study used a mixed-methods approach to develop and test a holistic caregiver-reported measure of HCT readiness for AYA Health-Related Independence (HRI). The phases used to create and test the HRI measure included: (1) construct and question topic development through qualitative data collection with AYA and caregivers; (2) question development with clinicians and caregivers; and (3) initial question testing utilizing cognitive interviews and pretesting of the instrument with caregivers. Results Measure constructs were developed based on qualitative findings from AYA (n = 27) and caregivers (n = 39). The researchers identified 12 themes related to HRI from the data. Next, questions were developed for each theme by caregivers (n = 5) and clinicians (n = 25). Finally, questions and the survey format were tested using caregiver feedback in the form of cognitive interviews (n = 15) and pretests (n = 21). The final version of the caregiver-reported HRI measure included 8 constructs and 58 questions. Conclusion The development of the HRI measure was a comprehensive and iterative process. This article highlights the measurement development process and its potential impact on AYA, caregivers, and clinicians. Lay summary Why was this study done?: Health care transition services help youth keep their health insurance, transition to an adult doctor smoothly, and promote independence. To date, there is no health care transition intervention for autistic young adults. Few studies have examined how to prepare autistic young adults to manage their health and self-care needs and the transition to an adult model of care. We wanted to fill in these gaps by creating a measure of health care transition readiness for autistic young adults.What was the purpose of this study?: The purpose of the study was to develop the Health-Related Independence measure based on autistic young adult and caregiver input. We define Health-Related Independence as a young adult's ability to manage their health, healthcare, and safety needs. We also wanted to examine the measure to make sure it was easy to read, made sense, and was easy to answer.What did the researchers do?: We used a mixed-methods approach to develop and test the Health-Related Independence measure. There were three parts to the study: (1) we conducted individual interviews with autistic young adults and focus groups with caregivers to understand what topics should be included in the measure, (2) clinicians and caregivers then used those topics to create specific survey questions, (3) we conducted interviews and online pretest of the measure with caregivers.What were the results of the study?: The autistic young adults and caregivers identified twelve topics/themes to include in the Health-Related Independence Measure. Caregiver feedback helped make the measure shorter and easier to understand and complete. The final version of the caregiver-reported HRI measure included 58 questions.What do these findings add to what was already known?: We learned that young adults and caregivers have a broad understanding of health-related independence such as safety and sexuality/relationship knowledge. There weren't any measures to capture these ideas. This study created an important new measure that can be used in healthcare clinics, schools, and at home.What are potential weaknesses in the study?: This study aimed to work with autistic young adults to develop the Health-Related Independence measure, but due to funding and study limitations, we only included young adults in the 1st phase of the study. Caregivers were used as proxy reporters in phases 2 and 3. Not including autistic young adults in phases 2 and 3 was a weakness of the study. Future research should aim to fully incorporate young adults into the research process. Their views should inform the development of the qualitative interview guides and all portions of the study.How will these findings help autistic adults now or in the future?: The Health-Related Independence measure can help caregivers and health care providers identify areas in which the autistic young adults are successful and areas of needed improvement to assist in the successful transition to adult care and adult life. The authors are currently working on a study proposal to validate the Health-Related Independence measure as a self-assessment tool for young adults to take themselves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Cheak-Zamora
- Department of Health Professions and School of Health Professions, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA.,Address correspondence to: Nancy Cheak-Zamora, PhD, Department of Health Sciences, School of Health Professions, University of Missouri, 510 Clark Hall, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Michelle Teti
- Department of Public Health, School of Health Professions, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Andrew Tait
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
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Mazurek MO, Stobbe G, Loftin R, Malow BA, Agrawal MM, Tapia M, Hess A, Farmer J, Cheak-Zamora N, Kuhlthau K, Sohl K. ECHO Autism Transition: Enhancing healthcare for adolescents and young adults with autism spectrum disorder. Autism 2020; 24:633-644. [PMID: 31581793 DOI: 10.1177/1362361319879616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2024]
Abstract
Transition-age youth and young adults with autism spectrum disorder have complex healthcare needs, yet the current healthcare system is not equipped to adequately meet the needs of this growing population. Primary care providers lack training and confidence in caring for youth and young adults with autism spectrum disorder. The current study developed and tested an adaptation of the Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes model to train and mentor primary care providers (n = 16) in best-practice care for transition-age youth and young adults with autism spectrum disorder. The Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes Autism Transition program consisted of 12 weekly 1-h sessions connecting primary care providers to an interdisciplinary expert team via multipoint videoconferencing. Sessions included brief didactics, case-based learning, and guided practice. Measures of primary care provider self-efficacy, knowledge, and practice were administered pre- and post-training. Participants demonstrated significant improvements in self-efficacy regarding caring for youth/young adults with autism spectrum disorder and reported high satisfaction and changes in practice as a result of participation. By contrast, no significant improvements in knowledge or perceived barriers were observed. Overall, the results indicate that the model holds promise for improving primary care providers' confidence and interest in working with transition-age youth and young adults with autism spectrum disorder. However, further refinements may be helpful for enhancing scope and impact on practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Amy Hess
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, USA
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Teti M, Cheak-Zamora N, Lolli B, Maurer-Batjer A. Reframing Autism: Young Adults With Autism Share Their Strengths Through Photo-Stories. J Pediatr Nurs 2016; 31:619-629. [PMID: 27474436 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2016.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2016] [Revised: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 07/06/2016] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED A dearth of research describes the lives of young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) from the perspectives of young adults themselves. We explored young adults' strengths using Photovoice, a method in which participants use images and discussions to express themselves. Images were purposefully chosen to help young people participate in the research process. DESIGN AND METHODS Eleven young adults captured their experiences growing up with ASD via images, and participated in three group photo discussions, an individual photo interview, and a photo exhibit. Qualitative data for analysis included session transcripts and photographs. We used strategies of theme analysis to understand participants' experiences. RESULTS The mean age of the sample was 20years, and 7 participants were male. Three sub-themes describe youth's strengths: 1) special interests that cultivated positive emotions and coping strategies; 2) skills and activities that evoked pride; and 3) reframing ASD as special versus a disadvantage. CONCLUSIONS The Photovoice method is well-suited to help young adults identify and express their strengths. Self-generated images and stories may offer a creative and effective form of communication for young adults with ASD. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Health care practitioners can capitalize on how Photovoice helps young adults express themselves by using images to understand their health priorities and involve young adults in their care plans. With images of strength, for example, nurses can build young adults' confidence and help these individuals to identify areas of their mental and physical lives in which they can thrive and experience improved quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Teti
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Missouri, MO.
| | | | - Bridget Lolli
- Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Missouri, MO
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Teti M, Massie J, Cheak-Zamora N, Binson D. Photos to ‘show the world what we’re going through’: Women use images to talk about living with HIV/AIDS. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012. [DOI: 10.1386/jaah.3.2.163_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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Reid-Arndt SA, Stucky K, Cheak-Zamora N, DeLeon PH, Frank RG. Investing in our future: unrealized opportunities for funding graduate psychology training. Rehabil Psychol 2010; 55:321-30. [PMID: 21171791 DOI: 10.1037/a0021894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Changes in the health care environment have brought challenges and opportunities to the field of psychology. Practitioners have been successful in modifying service models to absorb losses of financial support for behavioral health care, due to managed care and public policy changes, while simultaneously managing the growing need for these services. However, in this reactive mode of responding to evolutions in the health care system, the field of psychology has at times lost sight of the long-term vision required to promote psychology's inclusion in the health care system of the future. In particular, a focus on training psychologists and ensuring the availability of funding to support these activities must be a priority in planning for the future. This article provides an overview of federal programs that currently offer funding for psychology training, as well as other opportunities for federal funding that have been unrealized. Details regarding advocacy efforts that were required to secure available sources of funding are given, followed by consideration of strategies for taking advantage of existing resources and prioritizing advocacy for additional funding. CONCLUSION Funding for psychology training provides an avenue for increasing the number of well-trained psychologists who can serve patients' mental and behavioral health needs and thereby improve health outcomes. Moreover, capitalizing on available funding opportunities for psychology training and promoting efforts to expand these opportunities will help ensure that the field of psychology is positioned to remain an important contributor to the health care system of the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie A Reid-Arndt
- Department of Health Psychology, School of Health Professions, University of Missouri, 1 Hospital Drive, Columbia, MO 65212, USA.
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