224 Caregiver Perspectives on Telehealth Assessment and Other Supports for Infants with Early Developmental Concerns

Abstract

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: Caregivers often identify signs of autism in infancy but face multiple barriers when seeking specialized evaluations and subsequent services. This study sought to understand the experiences of families with early developmental concerns to identify acceptable and feasible strategies to support them during this period of uncertainty. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: We interviewed 15 families participating in a larger longitudinal project developing telehealth assessments for infants with early developmental concerns. Interviews were conducted virtually following the final toddler-age assessment, and focused on caregivers’ experiences navigating early concerns, appropriateness of existing supports, and suggestions for future directions. Interviews were transcribed and coded across multiple passes, focusing on both phenomenological experience and frequency of specific supports mentioned. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: Core themes expressed across multiple included: (1) Uncertainty; (2) Navigating Supports; (3) Community and Connection; and (4) Information is Power. Caregivers also provided specific suggestions for addressing these areas. These included suggestions for parent coaching topics, modalities for sharing information with parents (e.g., group meetings, online modules), and research practices. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: There have been recent efforts to develop pre-diagnostic interventions for infants, but few studies have investigated the needs and priorities of families during this period. Our approach can help bridge the gap between research and practice by identifying family priorities to target when developing interventions.