JOIN USA mobile-based microsite recently launched for educating doctors on early diagnosis of disorders like autism and cerebral palsy is fast gaining popularity in the medical fraternity.
The microsite was launched at a three-day workshop on neurodevelopmental disorders by the Union Health Ministry, Paediatrics Department of AIIMS in association with UNICEF on December 3. The microsite had 6,840 hits till Wednesday afternoon.
Currently, there is a lack of awarenss of the diseases and its early interventions even among doctors – especially in rural areas, said experts. The microsite gives consolidated information on neurodevelopmental disorders among children.
Doctors can click on the modules to learn how to diagnose disorders at an early stage and about its available treatment. Also, videos are available for better understanding.
The microsite gives information on four diseases – Autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, epilepsy and neuromotor impairment, which includes cerebral palsy neuromuscular disorder.
“Doctors can now access the information though the mobile-based website. We have also made videos available through it so that practitioners can learn how to manage tools. The parameters of diagnosing a disorder has also been listed out,” said Dr Sheffali Gulati, Professor Sheffali Gulati, Chief, Child Neurology Division,Department of Pediatrics, AIIMS.
Currently, there are plans to expand the information on the website. Uploading patient-related information at AIIMS is on the priority list. Its technical feasibility is being checked.
High-risk babies often need close follow ups for neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and cerebral palsy, among other diseases.
“In cases of neuro morbidity, it is important that there is early intervention in treatment of such babies. There is lack of awareness on this issue,” said Dr Gulati, who was the organising secretary of the event.
The microsite has also made use of diagrams and illustrations to make it an easy read.