Perceptions of the Parents of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders and Healthcare Providers on the Challenges of Using Rehabilitation Services in Iran

Abstract

Objectives: One of the most essential needs of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is using rehabilitation services. However, these services are associated with numerous challenges. The present study aimed to identify the perceptions of the parents of children with ASD and rehabilitation service providers about the challenges of using rehabilitation services in Iran. Methods: This was a qualitative study. In total, 27 participants were selected from the parents of children with ASD and rehabilitation service providers to these children, based on purposive sampling method; we considered maximum variation and sampling continued until data saturation. The necessary data were collected by semi-structured and in-depth interviews. The interviews lasted from July to December 2020 and MAXQDA was used for data analysis. Results: The challenges of children with ASD in accessing and using rehabilitation services were identified and categorized into 6 main classes, as follows: the lack of a systematic support system; the lack of commitment to observing professional ethics; neglecting the structure and policy of rehabilitation; the lack of comprehensive ASD diagnostic and rehabilitation protocols; inadequate knowledge and attitude, and the lack of feasible access to services. Discussion: Policymakers, service providers, and managers must be aware of the challenges of rehabilitation services for ASD; subsequently, they are expected to pay special attention to this issue. This study provided evidence for the above-mentioned groups for accessing and using rehabilitation services among ASD. Besides, the obtained data could help to improve the services they receive and their living conditions; ultimately, they help improve their quality of life.

Exploring the varied manifestations of structural violence in the lives of children on the autism spectrum and their families: a qualitative longitudinal study in Kurdistan, Iran

“…The number of codes for the sub-theme of “Migration” has increased from 0 in the first wave to 10 in the third wave. This suggests that more and more families are migrating in search of better services and support, as confirmed by other studies [ 90 ]. It highlights the need for comprehensive and accessible healthcare and educational infrastructure in regions like Kurdistan to prevent families from having to make such difficult choices or undergo prolonged separation.…”

Lived Experiences of Iranian Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review

“…Also, like Turkish parents in the Yassıbaş study, Iranian parents were not satisfied with the quality of services provided in the medical, rehabilitation, and educational centers ( 33 ). Service providers in public and private centers can increase the quality of services by providing qualified specialists from different fields in their centers, proper client management, providing appropriate equipment and space, paying attention to the parent’s counseling needs, and continuous training of therapists and educators and monitoring their performance ( 14 , 24 , 25 , 27 ).…”

Exploring the Varied Manifestations of Structural Violence in the Lives of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Their Parents: A Qualitative Longitudinal Study in Kurdistan, Iran

“…In severe cases, as con rmed by other studies, migration becomes the only choice left as a last resort. (73) It highlights the need for comprehensive and accessible healthcare and educational infrastructure in regions like Kurdistan to prevent families from having to make such di cult choices or undergo prolonged separation. Efforts should be directed towards developing local resources and improving the availability of specialized services to alleviate the burden on families and provide a better support system for children with autism and their parents.…”