Nova Scotia appoints autism research panel

Nova Scotia, Canada – The health minster of the maritime province, Leo Glavine has put together a panel of experts to research and make recommendations on the learning difference of autism. The panel consisting of nine members, that include doctors and other professionals who work with autistic children, will report back with their findings later this fall. In a news release first quoted by CBC News Glavine stated that children on the autistic spectrum need to receive early intervention  before they start school.

Glavine then also added that while autism is an important and pressing issue, actions taken should be based on the most current and up-date-information available.

Created in 2005, Early Intensive Behavioural Intervention program aims to help children on the spectrum before they start school. According to the government there are about 130 participants in the program each year with almost 200 on a waiting list.

In an interview conducted by CBC News, one panel member, Dr. Isabel Smith professor in pediatrics and psychology and neurosciences at Dalhousie University, and psychologist at the IWK Health Centre said she is happy to be part of the program:

“Families with autism find this program extremely valuable. I’m pleased to be able to work with government to extend the reach of the program, and to put children on the right path as they start school.”

The original article on the CBC News website can be read here

Contributed by Audrey L. Hollingshead