University researchers present findings of Nevada Autism Summit to Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities

For immediate release: March 6, 2007

Contact:

Emily Wofford Cobb, School of Medicine
775-784-6006, ewofford@unr.edu

Zanny Marsh, College of Education

University researchers present findings of the Nevada Autism Summit to Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities

Study recommends creation of state-funded website to improve access to information for Nevadans affected by autism

RENO, Nev.—The number of children in the United States diagnosed with autism is one in 150. In 1970, the rate of diagnosis was one in 10,000. This huge shift carries serious financial implications as states across the country attempt to provide and improve services to families affected by the disability.

The state of Nevada is certainly not an exception, which is why the Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities funded a two-phase, $125,000 research project to address the prevalence of autism and the need for diagnosis and treatment in the state. Findings from the study, called the Nevada Autism Summit, were presented to the council today. The study was conducted as a joint collaboration between the Nevada University Center for Excellence in Disabilities and the department of speech pathology and audiology at the University of Nevada School of Medicine.

“Nevadans have resoundingly requested access to valid information about autism, improved training opportunities and choices in quality services,” said Candace Ganz, Ed.D., project director of the Nevada Autism Summit. “This is true for individuals with autism, family members, and service providers throughout Nevada and across the lifespan.”

Ganz, who also serves as assistant director of the Nevada University Center for Excellence in Disabilities, and Debra Vigil, Ph.D., associate professor of speech pathology and audiology, addressed the council jointly and made recommendations to the State on how to effectively meet the current and future needs of families dealing with autism.

Project recommendations include the development of a state website called the Nevada Autism Network which would provide information to parents and health professionals about best practices in assessment and intervention. They also called for the creation of multidisciplinary assessments teams, tools and services that encourage early detection and support for intervention and treatment in addition to setting community screening mechanisms in place. Findings from the study also led researchers to recommend the provision of annual educational forums for both parents and health professionals to learn more about the signs, detection and treatment of autism.

Ganz and Vigil also recommended increased legislative action to support the efforts of the Autism Coalition of Nevada. Currently, the Coalition is working closely with Assemblywoman Sheila Leslie (D-Reno) to develop a bill that provides funding of services for individuals with autism.

“Considering the documented increase of autism diagnoses, it is imperative that the State provide both guidance and services for individuals with autism,” said Vigil, who chaired the project’s 20-member steering committee made up of parents, advocates, and service providers from urban and rural communities.

In addition to serving as the Nevada Autism Summit’s co-investigator, Vigil has also established the University Autism Assessment Clinic in the medical school’s Speech and Hearing Clinic. Vigil says the clinic was established to provide services to families who desperately need support.

Recommendations to the Council were based upon the findings of the Nevada Autism Summit. Investigators surveyed more than 700 families and providers to compile the report. Data including assessment and intervention practices, health, education, transition, vocation, recreation, and independent/supported living issues, from both family and service provider perspectives were compiled to complete the Nevada Autism Summit.

To learn more please visit http://repc.unr.edu/UCED/UCED/NAS.html or download the Nevada Autism Summit final report at http://www.nevadaddcouncil.org/downloads.html

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The University of Nevada School of Medicine utilizes a best-practice approach to medicine and is committed to addressing the health needs of Nevada now and in the future. For more information, please visit www.medicine.nevada.edu.