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Controversy: the creation of diagnostic “haves” and “have-nots,” an inadvertent cause of healthcare disparities among neurodevelopmental disabilities

Pediatric Research volume 90, pages 917–918 (2021)Cite this article

Case vignette: “Jason” is an 11-year-old boy, whose mother brings him in for a comprehensive Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics consultation, with question of whether he might have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Primary behavioral concerns are that he has frequent explosive behaviors, during which he physically attacks his mother and younger sister, and also bangs his own head, very hard, leaving bruises. Developmental history is significant for history of speech/language delays, delayed toilet training, long-standing and persistent academic difficulties, and significant social difficulties. Jason’s therapist referred Jason with reported goal of obtaining medical diagnosis of Autism, to access more school support, Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) services and Developmental Disability Services (DDS), to access much-needed respite supports.

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  1. Child Development and Rehabilitation Center, Institute on Development and Disability, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA

    Randall Phelps

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  1. Randall Phelps
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R.P. is the sole author of this manuscript; he conceptualized and wrote the manuscript.

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Correspondence to Randall Phelps.

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Phelps, R. Controversy: the creation of diagnostic “haves” and “have-nots,” an inadvertent cause of healthcare disparities among neurodevelopmental disabilities. Pediatr Res 90, 917–918 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41390-020-0969-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41390-020-0969-4

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