The Effectiveness of a Multidisciplinary Approach in the Rehabilitation of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Approaches, outcomes, and prospects for application

This article examines current approaches to multidisciplinary rehabilitation for children with autism spectrum disorder, highlighting the potential for these approaches to improve the quality of life for children with autism spectrum disorder and their families.Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary approach in the rehabilitation of children with autism spectrum disorder, analyze the obtained results, and determine prospects for further application of this approach in practice. Additionally, it aims to develop recommendations for optimizing rehabilitation programs.Methods. The multidisciplinary approach included psychological support, speech therapy sessions, social adaptation, and physical rehabilitation. The study was conducted at the National Center for Children’s Rehabilitation, with children admitted according to the scheduled intake. Participants were children aged 1 to 18 years diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A total of 481 individuals were studied over 2022 and 2023.Results. In 2022, 196 children were admitted with a diagnosis of childhood autism, including 151 males and 45 females. Additionally, 49 children were diagnosed with atypical autism, of whom 39 were male and 10 were female. In 2023, 206 children were admitted, including 152 males and 54 females. Of these, 30 children were diagnosed with atypical autism, with 13 males and 17 females. A multidisciplinary, integrative approach to rehabilitation, initiated in well-equipped and staffed centers, helps to improve the accurate diagnosis and treatment of children with autism spectrum disorders and leads to enhanced long-term outcomes. Conclusions. It is necessary to develop recommendations for specialists in the field of rehabilitation and psychology. It is also necessary to implement a multidisciplinary approach in educational and medical institutions.Keywords: autism, autism spectrum disorder, rehabilitation, multidisciplinary approach, multidisciplinary team.