As a speech-language pathologist, making data-driven decisions is crucial to improving outcomes for children. A recent study, "Cost-effectiveness analysis of a communication-focused therapy for pre-school children with autism: results from a randomised controlled trial," provides valuable insights into the cost-effectiveness of early intervention therapies for preschool children with autism.
The study evaluated the Preschool Autism Communication Trial (PACT), a parent-mediated, communication-focused therapy. It compared PACT plus treatment as usual (TAU) to TAU alone. The primary outcome was the severity of autism symptoms at a 13-month follow-up. The results indicated a clinically meaningful improvement for 53% of children in the PACT+TAU group compared to 41% in the TAU group.
Here are key takeaways for practitioners:
- Parental Involvement: PACT therapy involves parents actively in the therapeutic process, which enhances the child’s communicative and social development. Encourage parents to engage in therapy sessions and home practice to maximize benefits.
- Cost Considerations: While the service costs were higher for PACT+TAU, the societal costs, including informal care, were not significantly different between the groups. This suggests that the burden on parents is reduced, which can be an essential factor in long-term therapy sustainability.
- Focus on Communication: The PACT therapy specifically targets social interaction and communication impairments, making it a focused approach that can be more effective for certain children. Tailoring interventions to address specific impairments can lead to better outcomes.
Practitioners should consider integrating elements of the PACT approach into their therapy sessions. The study underscores the importance of early intervention and the potential benefits of parent-mediated therapy. By incorporating these findings into practice, speech-language pathologists can enhance the effectiveness of their interventions and provide better support to children with autism and their families.
Further research is necessary to explore the long-term cost-effectiveness of such interventions and to refine therapeutic approaches. Staying updated with the latest research and adapting evidence-based practices is essential for achieving the best outcomes for children.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Cost-effectiveness analysis of a communication-focused therapy for pre-school children with autism: results from a randomised controlled trial.
