2025 Annual Report

PATIENT CARE PATIENT CARE, QUALITY & SAFETY

EXPANDING ACCESS TO AUTISM DIAGNOSIS THROUGH PEDIATRICIAN LED CARE

For many families, an autism diagnosis is the gateway to critical early support such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, and applied behavior analysis. That diagnosis is guided by criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), the nationally recognized framework clinicians use to diagnose autism spectrum disorder and other neurodevelopmental conditions. Within the University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of Pediatrics, a pediatrician-led autism assessment approach is using this evidence-based standard to help families access answers sooner. By training general pediatricians to diagnose clear autism cases using DSM-5 criteria, the approach is reducing wait times, improving access to care, and ensuring children with more complex needs are connected to specialized care when needed.

BUILDING A PEDIATRICIAN-LED APPROACH

The approach was pioneered by pediatrician Rose James, M.D., who established the foundation for a structured protocol supporting appropriate autism assessments within primary care. She later looped in

Justin Schwartz, M.D., associate professor in the Division of Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics, for his developmental pediatric expertise. As the effort expanded, leadership transitioned to Kathleen Vincent, M.D., and Heather Relyea Ashley, M.D., assistant professors in the Division of Academic General Pediatrics, further strengthening training, continuity, and family-centered care.

“Being able to diagnose clear cases sooner helps families move forward during an important period of growth.”

KATHLEEN VINCENT, M.D.

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2025 ACADEMIC ANNUAL REPORT