An Interactive Autism Screening Tool for Early Childhood Providers
Currently the average age of diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder in the US is close to 4 years of age, although signs can be seen as early as 12 months of age.
It is important to think of a new system and new ways to identify ASD early. Early Identification leads to early intensive intervention which can change the course of the disorder and significantly reduce its impact.
This is an urgent public health need not only in the US, but globally. Roula Choueiri, MD, is the co-developer of the Rapid Interactive Screening Test for Autism in Toddlers (RITA-T). The RITA-T allows the screening and identification of toddlers as early as 18 months of age. Its integration in practice improves early identification and early access. It has been integrated within primary care centers, early intervention programs and tertiary care centers, to improve access and early identification.
The integration of the RITA-T within different clinical models has allowed improved wait time, and earlier identification of ASD in young children!
Latest News
The RITA-T Team’s newest journal article is out! Check it out to read about the RITA-T community model to improve early identification of ASD in young children: "The RITA-T (Rapid Interactive Screening Test for Autism in Toddlers) Community Model to Improve Access and Early Identification of Autism in Young Children."
What is the RITA-T Screening Test
The RITA-T is a new Level 2 screening tests: it is to be administered on young children identified at risk for ASD, or who scored positive on a Level 1 screening test, or providers are worried about.
Rita-T Training Course
We have developed an online training program to improve access, while providing at the same time educational material on early signs of autism, different models that have integrated the RITA-T.
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