Abstract
Since 2000, there has been an increasing emphasis on screening for autism spectrum disorders (ASD) during well-child visits (P. A. Filipek et al., 2000; C. P. Johnson & S. M. Myers, 2007). Pediatricians surveyed in 2 mid-Atlantic states reported extremely low rates of screening for ASD (8% of participants) in comparison with higher rates of general developmental screening (80%; S. dosReis, C. L. Weiner, L. Johnson, & C. J. Newschaffer, 2006). The current study was an extension of the study by S. dosReis et al and targeted a different geographic area (ie, southern states). Both pediatricians and family physicians were recruited to participate in the survey by using paper-pencil and online survey methods. Results revealed a high rate of general developmental screening for both pediatricians and family physicians. Despite participants' acknowledgment of increased prevalence rates of ASD, low rates of screening for ASD were reported (28%) and important barriers were identified. In light of these results, alternative and creative solutions to improve screening practices are discussed.