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Review
. 2020 Apr 23;8(4):e16085.
doi: 10.2196/16085.

The Acceptability and Effectiveness of Web-Based Developmental Surveillance Programs: Rapid Review

Jess Baker  1 , Jane Kohlhoff  2 , Se-Inyenede Onobrakpor  3 , Sue Woolfenden  4 , Rebecca Smith  5 , Constanze Knebel  6 , Valsamma Eapen  1
Affiliations
Review

The Acceptability and Effectiveness of Web-Based Developmental Surveillance Programs: Rapid Review

Jess Baker et al. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth. .

Abstract

Background: Web-based developmental surveillance programs may be an innovative solution to improving the early detection of childhood developmental difficulties, especially within disadvantaged populations.

Objective: This review aimed to identify the acceptability and effectiveness of web-based developmental surveillance programs for children aged 0 to 6 years.

Methods: A total of 6 databases and gray literature were searched using a Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses-informed protocol. Data extraction included variables related to health equity.

Results: In total, 20 studies were identified. Most papers implemented web-based versions of the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised with Follow-Up screener for autism spectrum disorder or Parent Evaluation of Developmental Status screeners for broad developmental delay. Caregivers and practitioners indicated a preference for web-based screeners, primarily for user-friendliness, improved follow-up accuracy, time, and training efficiencies.

Conclusions: Although evidence is limited as to the necessity of web- versus face-to-face-based developmental screening, there are clear efficiencies in its use.

Trial registration: PROSPERO CRD42019127894; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=127894.

Keywords: developmental disabilities; health care disparities; mass screening; neurodevelopmental disorders; public health surveillance; review literature as topic.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflicts of Interest: None declared.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses flow diagram.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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