A multi-stakeholder analysis of the system of screening neurodevelopmental disorders in Singapore

Abstract

Early detection of developmental disorders lays the foundation of seeking timely intervention to improve developmental outcomes. Yet, there are only a few domain-specific screening tools, and they have significant limitations. Thus, the present study explored the context of early screening in Singapore to evaluate the feasibility of implementing an application that screens for neurodevelopmental disorders at a point in the healthcare system with the greatest utility. We conducted semi-structured interviews (N = 55) and focus groups sessions with clinicians and parents to gain a deeper understanding of early detection, referrals, and attitudes towards early intervention programs in Singapore as well as plausible explanations for low follow-up rates. We utilised a thematic analysis approach to identify key themes in our qualitative data. Our findings indicate that a suitable age to implement a screening tool is around 12 months. The most likely target user for the tool is general practitioners. It requires specific features to maximise efficiency, conduct risk stratification, and to improve follow-up rates.