Although early detection and intervention of disabilities can
often make a dramatic difference in a child's life, parents of
children with autism say they don't put their faith in the
people on the front lines of treating and caring for their
children. A small new study discussed at the International
Meeting for Autism Research in Toronto last week found that
parents didn't expect their pediatricians to provide autism-
specific treatment, and many pediatricians don't view autism
treatment as within the scope of their work. The study involving
families and doctors in Philadelphia, also found that even
doctors who want to help families manage their children's
diagnoses lack the training to do so. "This study validates what
previous studies and parents have told us: Many pediatricians
are not prepared to provide the kind of advice and information
that parents need after receiving a diagnosis of autism for
their child," Geraldine Dawson, chief science officer for Autism
Speaks, told HealthDay News. "Without advice