Emergency preparedness for children with autism: A needs assessment for a vulnerable population

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a group of biologically based neurodevelopment disorders characterized by impairments in socialization, communication and behavior. According to a 2006 CDC study, one in 150 children in the U.S. has an autism spectrum disorder, one of the most rapidly increasing development disabilities. These children and their caregivers face special challenges during emergency situations. The Center for Bioterrorism and All-hazards Preparedness at Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine, a national training center funded by the federal government, is committed to providing effective emergency preparedness training programs for vulnerable populations.

In collaboration with the national leading institute for children with autism, the Baudhuin School at the Mailman Segal Institute for Early Childhood Studies, the objective of this project is to conduct a needs assessment for emergency preparedness training program for professionals and caregivers of children with ASD before, during, and after an unexpected event or emergency situations.

The comprehensive needs assessment is conducted through surveys, in-depth interviews, and focus groups. The surveys reveal current disaster preparedness knowledge and practices among the caregivers of children enrolled in the Baudhuin School. The interviews and focus groups investigate the current preparedness plans (including deficiencies), communication strategies, and the participant's perceived ways to improve disaster preparedness plans for children with autism.

This needs assessment guides the development and implementation of training programs that incorporate the special emergency preparedness needs of the children with ASD. A program evaluation plan for this “customized” training program will also be discussed.