Faster Autism Diagnoses Reach Rural Georgia: A New Hope for Families
For families in rural Georgia, accessing timely autism diagnoses has long been a significant challenge. Mercer University’s School of Medicine is changing that with the expansion of its Early Autism Detection Program, bringing faster answers and, crucially, earlier intervention to communities where specialty services are scarce.
The Diagnostic Delay: A Critical Window Lost
Traditionally, children are diagnosed with autism when they enter school, often missing a vital period of brain development. Sherrie Williams, program director, emphasizes that this delay means “a substantial window of brain development” passes without targeted support. The Mercer program aims to identify autism as early as 16 to 30 months, allowing families to access resources like audiology, physical therapy, and behavioral interventions sooner.
EarliPoint: Eye-Tracking Technology in Action
The program utilizes EarliPoint Evaluation, an innovative eye-tracking technology. A trained technician administers the test following a referral from a local medical provider. This technology assesses a child for developmental signs of autism, and the provider then makes a final diagnosis based on the results. This streamlined process dramatically reduces wait times.
Dr. Jennifer Tarbutton, a Washington County pediatrician, highlights the importance of early detection, noting that “the biggest explosion of development in language occurs between 12 months and 30 months.” Identifying potential issues within this timeframe is critical for maximizing a child’s potential.
Bridging the Gap in Rural Healthcare
The Mercer program directly addresses a critical gap in rural healthcare. As Williams, a Berrien resident and licensed clinical social worker, points out, “Specialty services, such as autism testing, are never located in our rural communities.” Historically, families often faced journeys to larger cities like Atlanta to access these services, adding significant logistical and financial burdens.
The program, launched in July 2025, initially served Laurens, Washington, and Monroe counties and is now expanding to Berrien County. The typical diagnostic process can take over a year, sometimes even two, but Mercer’s program aims for testing within less than five days of referral.
Training and Support for Healthcare Providers
Mercer isn’t just providing testing; they’re also equipping local healthcare providers with the knowledge and skills to recognize early signs of autism. Over 50-60 Georgia healthcare providers, including Dr. Tarbutton, have received virtual training covering early intervention strategies, referral guidelines, and test interpretation. This training also includes guidance for supporting families after a diagnosis.
The program’s impact extends beyond confirmed diagnoses. Even as more than two dozen families have participated in free testing, the program has also identified other developmental challenges, connecting families with the state’s Babies Can’t Wait program for early intervention resources.
Future Trends in Early Autism Detection
The Mercer program represents a significant step forward, but it also points to broader trends in early autism detection, and intervention. Expect to see increased integration of technology, a greater emphasis on telehealth, and a more holistic approach to developmental screening.
Telehealth and Remote Diagnostics
The success of Mercer’s virtual training suggests a growing role for telehealth in delivering specialized care to rural areas. Remote diagnostic tools, coupled with trained local providers, could significantly expand access to early autism detection.
Expansion of Eye-Tracking Technology
EarliPoint is just one example of how technology is transforming autism diagnosis. Further development and refinement of eye-tracking technology, along with other biometric sensors, could lead to even more accurate and efficient screening methods. Dr. Tarbutton expressed hope that the screening tool will be approved for use on older children in the future.
Integrated Developmental Screening
The future of early detection likely involves integrating autism screening into routine pediatric checkups. This proactive approach could identify potential issues earlier, even before parents express specific concerns.
FAQ
Q: How early can autism be diagnosed with the Mercer program?
A: As early as 16 to 30 months.
Q: What is EarliPoint?
A: EarliPoint Evaluation is an eye-tracking technology used to assess developmental signs of autism.
Q: Where is the Mercer program available?
A: Currently in Laurens, Washington, Monroe, and Berrien counties in Georgia, with plans for further expansion.
Q: What happens if my child is identified as having developmental challenges but not autism?
A: The program can connect families with the Babies Can’t Wait program for early intervention resources.
Did you know? Early intervention is proven to significantly improve outcomes for children with autism.
Pro Tip: If you have concerns about your child’s development, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your pediatrician.
Learn more about autism and available resources by visiting the Autism Speaks website.
Have questions about the Mercer program or early autism detection? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
