Medical professionals introduce first-of-its-kind mobile Autism diagnosis unit
Adrik Vargas
EL CENTRO, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) – Wait times to get an Autism diagnosis can stretch for months in Imperial County.
A local organization is hoping to change that by bringing screenings closer to home.
Getting an autism diagnosis in Imperial County isn’t always easy. Limited providers and long wait times can leave families without answers for months or even traveling out of the county for help.
“And that’s usually due to the limitations in service providers and clinical psychologists available in our county, or transportation difficulties…If they have to reschedule and there’s nothing available, it delays them possibly getting diagnosed,” said Abby Martinez, Behavior Specialist.
But now, a first-of-its-kind mobile diagnosis unit, called George and Audrey is hitting the road. Come May, it’ll be staffed with clinical professionals trained in the gold-standard ADOS evaluation, thanks to a team effort between San Diego State and UC Riverside.
“It’s a team approach, so it makes it multifaceted, it’s not just one lens of an experienced clinician, but the lens of many,” said Martinez.
James Gonzalez with Autism Support of Imperial County says creating the mobile unit has always been about speeding up that process.
“We’re just hoping to be able to fast track a lot of families and their services, that’s the goal.” said Gonzalez.
And for families looking to learn more, they’ll get a chance this weekend.
“We’ll have the mobile unit there to give tours, and answer questions for any family, and SDRC will be there too to answer any questions.” said Gonzalez.
The unit will be at the Fourth annual Autism Fair and 5K at Eager Park, Saturday from 12 to 4 p.m., complete with live music and resources for local families.
“It’s the first of its kind in all of California…and it’s here in Imperial,” said Gonzalez.
For more information on the application process, head to ASIC.LOVE.