The Massachusetts Autism Commission 2012 report identified “a critical need to develop a comprehensive statewide approach” to respond to the needs of the rapidly increasing population of people with autism spectrum disorder and developmental disabilities (ASD/DD). In response, UMass Medical School has been conducting a needs assessment to inform efforts to establish a state-level data collection and surveillance plan for systems of services for children and youth with ASD/DD.

Although Massachusetts is a resource rich state, through a review of secondary data analysis, key informant interviews, focus groups, and surveys, the needs assessment has identified certain gaps in services and coverage. Selected findings are shared here, though much more exists.

Presented at the 2015 AUCD (Association of University Centers on Disabilities) Annual Conference.