Developing a Data Compilation for the Marin Autism Collaborative
There is a documented need for better services for those with autism spectrum disorders. Various barriers, such as availability and accessibility of services and financial barriers, prevent those who need services from obtaining them. According to the literature, using data, particularly population level data, leads to improved services. Understanding the effectiveness and ineffectiveness of services helps healthcare providers identify areas for improvement and/or capitalize on past successful methods. The purpose of this project was to provide a data compilation containing autism statistics including but not limited to prevalence, trend data, service use, and needs for the Marin Autism Collaborative (MAC). The compilation is meant to aid the various organizations that comprise MAC in improving existing supports for the autism community to better meet this population’s needs. The presented data compilation follows the trend in datadriven service development, while taking an occupational justice perspective on the various trends in autism data at the county, state, and national levels. In addition, it highlights the gaps in current autism statistics. A survey including a Likert scale and open-ended questions was sent to MAC agencies to evaluate the data compilation, the results of which were overall positive.
Bay Area, Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Occupational Therapy
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