A proposed ASD-CENTRIC collaborative treatment environment: the underlying role of virtual care teams

Every year an increasing number of individuals are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ASDs involve difficulties with self-initiation of social behaviors, possibly due to motivational issues, as well as language and behavioral impairments. Given the complexity and the abnormal development of this disorder one-to-one multidisciplinary treatment approach under a common dynamic collaborative environment is considered of paramount significance. This paper proposes an ASD-centric Computer Supported Collaborative Treatment Environment/model which employs the notion of Virtual Care Teams for supporting continuous treatment and service provision adopted on the unique qualities, interests, personality traits and contextual characteristics of a person with ASD. Furthermore, it proposes a set of services adjusted to the peculiarities and values of the ASD field. With the successful implementation of this collaboration model, an increased communication, effective decision making and prompt error handling can be achieved to the benefit of the individual with ASD; that is, increase to its intellectual capabilities, social inclusion, and self-motivation.