Objective: To evaluate the impact of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) coordinators (ASDCs) on key aspects of the experience of obtaining an ASD diagnosis and post-diagnostic supports in New Zealand.
Method: Members of New Zealand ASD parent support groups were surveyed.
Results: Of 516 parents, 41.3% had seen an ASDC. The majority were satisfied. Parents who saw ASDCs pre-diagnosis were more likely to be satisfied with the diagnostic process (p = .04) and saw fewer professionals before receiving a diagnosis (p = .04). Parents who had seen ASDCs post-diagnosis were more likely to be satisfied with post-diagnostic supports (p < .001) and their coordination (p < .001).
Conclusions: ASDCs are well regarded by parents and improve key aspects of the process of obtaining an ASD diagnosis and post-diagnostic supports. Given the particularly low rates of parent satisfaction with post-diagnostic supports (23%) and their coordination (19%), ASDCs may be of most value when employed post-diagnosis to assist parents in navigating key supports and co-developing comprehensive individualised care plans.
Keywords: autism spectrum disorder; care coordination; parent; satisfaction; supports.