Early Intervention for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Dubai: A Rapid Review and Policy Option Analysis

Title:Early Intervention for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Dubai: A Rapid Review and Policy Option Analysis

Volume: 5

Author(s): Ammar Albanna*, Eva Jarawan, Rasha Alhejailan, Mara-Clarisa Boiangiu and Wu Zeng

Affiliation:

• Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital, Dubai, UAE
• Mohamed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, UAE

Abstract:

Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex and heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder that is associated with functional impairments across an individual’s lifespan. The complexity and increasing global prevalence of ASD pose significant strains on healthcare systems. Early Intensive Behavioral Interventions (EIBI) are cost-effective evidence-based interventions that improve outcomes for individuals with ASD, especially when implemented in early childhood.

Objectives: This study reviews the disease burden of ASD and analyzes four potential financing models for EIBI in Dubai.

Methods: A rapid literature review was conducted to synthesize the disease burden of ASD and EIBI services in Dubai. Bardach’s eightfold model for policy analysis was used to analyze four policy options for EIBI in Dubai: (1) Government financing and provision of EIBI through specialized centers, (2) Government financing of EIBI through contracting private providers, (3) Mandating insurance coverage of EIBI for children with ASD, and, lastly, (4) A mixed model that includes both mandating insurance coverage for EIBI and government provision through non-profit organizations.

Results: EIBI services were available in Dubai but were associated with a substantial out-of-pocket (OOP) burden on families. Many young children with ASD were unable to access EIBI. Option (4) of using the mixed financing model of EIBI was optimal in the context of Dubai, based on evaluation criteria, including accessibility, cost-effectiveness, quality, and implementability, with minimal OOP burden on families.

Conclusion: To ease the burden on families with children suffering from ASD, the stakeholders, including the government of Dubai, should consider a mixed financial model to provide EIBI.

Cite this article as:

Albanna Ammar*, Jarawan Eva, Alhejailan Rasha, Boiangiu Mara-Clarisa and Zeng Wu, Early Intervention for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Dubai: A Rapid Review and Policy Option Analysis, New Emirates Medical Journal 2024; 5 : e02506882265394 . https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/0102506882265394231027114304