Accessibility and Quality of Special Education Services for Children with Autism in Pakistan’s Public and Private Sectors

Abstract

The early detection of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has been vital in enhancing developmental outcome but in rural parts of Pakistan, this is a challenge due to the many obstacles that delay the diagnosis. This in-depth literature review examines such hindrances and suggests the evidence-based and culturally acceptable measures of this region. The results identify three related barrier areas. On the one hand, the pursuit of medical care is impeded by sociocultural parameters such as absence of public awareness, widespread stigma within the society, and the use of traditional healers. Second, patient Bro Systemic barriers the healthcare system deficiencies, e.g. shortage of qualified specialists, a lack of training in primary care teaching about developmental screening, and referral systems that are disjointed, create systemic barriers. Third, socioeconomic and geographic inaccessibility (caused by poverty and accessibility to faraway urban diagnostic facilities) includes making the services unavailable to the majority of rural households. In order to surpass these difficulties, a comprehensive strategy is required. The suggested measures are aimed at the empowerment of the Community Health Workers (CHWs) to conduct basic developmental surveillance and the initiation of community development awareness campaigns. These initiatives work to be accompanied by the reinforcement of the primary healthcare system through extending screening services to ordinary visits, applying the examples of task-shifting, and using the telehealth technologies. Lastly, optimal policy and educational changes are essential in creating a long-term, the step-by-step system of care. There is a need to make a serious concerted effort of political leaders, health care providers, and community stakeholders to establish an efficient pathway of timely diagnosis and intervention to improve the outcomes of the multiplicity of children with ASD nationwide.

Keywords: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Special Education Services, Accessibility, Service Quality, Public Sector Education, Private Sector Education, Special Education