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Perspectives and Learning Needs Assessment of Pediatric Residents Across Medical Schools in Canada: A Qualitative Study of Autism Care and Education
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- Author / Creator
- Piroddi, Nicholas AJ
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Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social communication differences and the presence of restricted, repetitive interests and patterns of behaviour. Despite its 2% prevalence rate in Canada, many pediatricians miss cases of autism due to a lack of knowledge of screening tools. Knowledge about resources and approaches to the management of co-occurring conditions is also variable. Currently, there is no literature on the evaluation of autism in the medical education system in both medical school and in pediatric residency in Canada. The overarching objectives were to assess the perceived needs and opportunities for improvement related to Canadian pediatric residents’ educational experiences with regards to autism care, and to determine residents’ perspectives on providing best practice care for autistic patients. Pediatric residents (n=12) from medical schools in Alberta and British Columbia, Canada participated in interviews, which focused on two main areas: best practice care and learning needs regarding autism. The interviews were conducted using Thorne’s Interpretive Description phenomenological methodology, and analysis was conducted using a reflexive thematic approach to encapsulate best practice perspectives and a summative content approach to determine barriers to providing best practice care and gaps to mitigate the gaps. This qualitative study provides insight on the critical issues surrounding residency education regarding care for autism. Addressing learning needs and areas of improvement identified by pediatric residents could lead to better outcomes for autistic individuals and their families. By providing pediatric residents with more comprehensive training and resources, we can work towards reducing missed cases of autism and enhancing the quality of care for autistic patients.
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- Subjects / Keywords
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- Graduation date
- Fall 2024
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- Type of Item
- Thesis
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- Degree
- Master of Science
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- License
- This thesis is made available by the University of Alberta Library with permission of the copyright owner solely for non-commercial purposes. This thesis, or any portion thereof, may not otherwise be copied or reproduced without the written consent of the copyright owner, except to the extent permitted by Canadian copyright law.