Initial Autism Assessments done by GEMMA are completed remotely. This eliminates travel for parents and allows them to participate from home.
GEMMA uses the assessment called the Brief Observation of Symptoms of Autism (BOSA).
In 2020, GEMMA adopted the BOSA in response to COVID-19 restrictions. Due to the convenience this created for parents, GEMMA has continued with this method for initial assessments.
The BOSA is validated and accredited. Qualified experienced clinical psychologists observe children playing with a standardised set of toys.
The BOSA is validated and accredited. Qualified experienced clinical psychologists observe children playing with a standardised set of toys.
Remote BOSA Testing
A BOSA Box is sent to the family 1-2 days before the appointment.
This box contains age appropriate toys for the child to play with during the assessment.
The child is observed playing with the toys and interacting with their parents.
After the assessment, parents send the toys back ICAN.
If a child shows signs of autism in two BOSA assessments, they are invited for a full, face-to face clinical assessment.
GEMMA provides autism assessments for participants via remote means. Parents of children with autism have found remote assessment to be an improvement to the diagnosis process, ''I do think the remote assessment was a really efficient (and yet still very thorough and professional) way of reducing waiting lists for children for autism assessments'' p21 from the recently publish book by author and parent of 3 autistic children Lhara Mullins.
'It Takes a Village Navigating the Journey of Parenting your Autistic Child''
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