Autism Technology
where they rely exclusively on their own training , experience , and clinical observation of a child . Such observations could be influenced by the child ’ s gender , race , ethnicity , economic status , and geographic location .
With the help of AI-based diagnostics , physicians can have the opportunity to make earlier and more accurate diagnoses . As the technology grows increasingly sophisticated , it can also be used to assess verbal abilities and differences in a child ’ s development .
By utilizing AI-based solutions , we can imagine that diagnostic specialists will be able to see children with more complex presentations of autism sooner because those children with more clear-cut autism diagnoses can be diagnosed and supported more immediately by their pediatricians .
Technology can help create a more streamlined care system . This will benefit children and families , who will be able to access appropriate care sooner . Another consequence could be a more responsive healthcare community better able to serve the needs of patients and their caregivers .
Of course , AI systems are only as good as the data they ’ re built upon . That is why algorithms must be developed in a way that deliberately takes into account the gender , racial , ethnic , and socioeconomic dynamics of a child , recognizing , for example , that girls with autism
show different traits than boys with autism .
As the technology grows increasingly sophisticated , it can also be used to assess verbal abilities and differences in a child ’ s development .
By incorporating equally nuanced data , AI can scale this knowledge and experience in a way that reflects highly diverse communities of children and families and make it available to every pediatrician . In this way , children and families will finally have more equitable access to more accurate and efficient diagnosis .
AI-based diagnostics are set to become an increasingly important tool in clinicians ’ toolboxes . But technology in autism is not a silver bullet . New solutions in clinical practice must be accompanied by education and training that better informs and connects families and clinicians alike to the networks and services that will provide ongoing care and improve lifelong outcomes .
Fortunately , the healthcare community is increasingly attuned to the many factors that affect the health of children , families , and communities . Together with technology advancements and a shared focus on better outcomes , we can see to it that every child and family living with autism receives optimal , timely and responsive care and support — regardless of gender , family background , location , or income .
David Happel , MBA is the President and CEO of Cognoa , a pediatric behavioral health company developing diagnostic and therapeutic solutions to improve the lives and outcomes of children and families living with behavioral conditions .
Prior to joining Cognoa , Happel served as President , CEO , and Director at Chrono Therapeutics , a biopharmaceutical company focused on treatments for neurologically debilitating conditions . He also previously served in senior roles at Horizon Therapeutics , Raptor Pharma , and Allergen Research Corporation .
With over 25 years of industry experience , Happel has an extensive track record of improving clinical and commercial outcomes for cutting-edge health-tech companies .
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