Clinical Outcomes of a Hybrid Model Approach to Applied Behavioral Analysis Treatment

Abstract

Objective This study examines the implementation of a hybrid applied behavioral analysis (ABA) treatment model to determine its impact on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) patient outcomes. Methods Retrospective data were collected for 25 pediatric patients to measure progress before and after the implementation of a hybrid ABA treatment model under which therapists consistently captured session notes electronically regarding goals and patient progress. ABA treatment was streamlined for consistent delivery, with improved software utilization for tracking scheduling and progress. Eleven goals within three domains (behavioral, social, and communication) were examined. Results After the implementation of the hybrid model, the goal success rate improved by 9.7% compared to the baseline; 41.8% of goals showed improvement, 38.4% showed a flat trend, and 19.8% showed deterioration. Multiple goals trended upwards in 76% of the patients. Conclusion This pilot study demonstrated that enhancing the consistency with which ABA treatment is monitored/delivered can improve patient outcomes as seen through improved attainment of goals.

Family-Centric Applied Behavior Analysis Facilitates Improved Treatment Utilization and Outcomes

“…These findings establish that the pBT Forta model performs equal to or better than other ABA models (Figure 1) and is a strong contender to fill the widening treatment accessibility gap. The pBT model overcomes limitations to treatment access [41,48], including logistical challenges (e.g., scheduling, travel to clinical sites) and shortages in the ABA workforce [26][27][28]. The high utilization and clinical gains seen in the pBT Forta model may be driven by multiple factors, including increased accessibility (convenience, geographical proximity, and ongoing consistent operational, technical, and clinical support), a rigorous standard of care, and the confidence and sense of empowerment that parents report they acquire while participating in the pBT model.…”

“…pBTs delivered ABA during treatment sessions and used the app to record and track patient progress for each ABA session, a process that is described in our prior work [48]. The app also provided pBTs access to the TP to ensure prescribed skill acquisition and behavior reduction goals were addressed during sessions.…”

“…The app also provided pBTs access to the TP to ensure prescribed skill acquisition and behavior reduction goals were addressed during sessions. pBTs recorded data on a trial-by-trial basis on acquisition of target behaviors pursuant to the goals set [48], and these data were graphed to monitor progress. The BCBA monitored patient progress by observing treatment sessions during supervision, as well as by reviewing the graphed pBT-recorded data.…”

Examining the Effects of Discrete Trials, Mass Trials, and Naturalistic Environment Training on Autistic Individuals Using Repeated Measures

“…The primary objective of this study was to extend the research to evaluate the effectiveness of a mixed behavioral model using a repeated measures design with a retrospective snapshot cohort of 93 autistic individuals treated with discrete trial training and mass trials in a naturalistic environment over seven time points covering three months [6]. It is hypothesized that the child cohorts treated with the mixed model, consisting of discrete trial training and mass trial interventions in the naturalistic environment, will demonstrate statistically significant progress toward general target behavioral goals over time.…”

Machine Learning Approach for Improved Longitudinal Prediction of Progression from Mild Cognitive Impairment to Alzheimer’s Disease

“…Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) decision support tools have been validated for a variety of clinical predictive tasks, including those related to neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental conditions as well as other acute and chronic conditions [ 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 , 19 , 20 , 21 , 22 , 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 , 27 , 28 , 29 ]. These tools provide the opportunity for earlier detection of medical conditions or complications and may, in turn, facilitate earlier treatment when appropriate for a particular condition.…”