Experience of parents of children with autism spectrum disorder regarding the tele-rehabilitation service in the selected schools of children with autism during COVID-19

Abstract

Background: Tele rehabilitation is a growing concern in Bangladesh nowadays. About 80% of Bangladeshi resides in countryside with unequal distribution of physicians and healthcare facilities and most of them are from poor household. Thus the health outcomes for people living in rural locations are generally worse than urban areas. In these circumstances telemedicine could be the best way as it can provide better health care by using maximum utilization of limited resources. The study attempts to know the experience of parents of children with autism spectrum disorder regarding the tele rehabilitation services in schools of children with autism during COVID- 19. Aim: To identify experience of parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder regarding the tele- rehabilitation service in the schools of children with autism during COVID-19. Methods: A qualitative study design was used. The data have been collected by semi-structured open ended questionnaire through in-depth interview. About six participants were selected by using snowball sampling from the parents of autism children list who received tele rehabilitation service in COVID- 19. Data has been analyzed by Qualitative thematic analysis. Results: From the findings of the research it is seen that, Practical therapy session was more benefited rather than tele rehabilitation services. Satisfaction of parents are influenced by Tele rehabilitation service are less benefited for autism children. Engaging in home base therapeutic activity to follow tele rehab services guideline this time participants are ensure faces some barrier. Conclusions: Results of this study indicate that, majority telehealth receivers are interested to take practical session but need assurance of service betterment in future. This study will be effective for rural area people rather than urban areas to improve their knowledge. Keywords: Tele -rehabilitation, Autism spectrum disorder, Communication, Technology, Internet, Tele medicine, School based activity, Parents experience. Abstract