H - 55 Socially Responsible Neuropsychology (SRN) in Action: the Role of Neuropsychology in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Care, a Case Study of a Bilingual Latino Patient.

OBJECTIVE: Latinx children with ASD are diagnosed 1-3 years later than their White counterparts and typically present with more severe symptoms at the time of assessment. Systemic barriers include language barriers, limited literacy about ASD, mental health stigma, mistrust in healthcare. Latinx children are at greater risk of misdiagnosis, delayed access to special education, limiting early intervention. Within neuropsychology, there are limited bicultural/bilingual neuropsychologists trained in autism evaluations, few Spanish ASD diagnostic tools, no bilingual norms, and little understanding regarding neuropsychologists' role in providing autism evaluations to culturally/linguistically diverse children. This social injustice results in unmet needs and inequities in ASD care for Latinx children. We aim to illustrate how the SRN model increases equitable ASD care amongst Latinx children.

METHOD: SRN model was utilized in 11-year-old bilingual Latinx male by applying culturally responsive interview to identify systemic barriers and language use, and a model of language proficiency testing. Testing was primarily in English after verbal fluency measures established language dominance. Clinical decision making identified the need for autism evaluation using Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2).

RESULTS: His cognitive profile showed word reading and motor inefficiencies. ADOS-2 identified deficits in communication, reciprocal social interaction, restricted and repetitive behavior. Neuropsychological assessment confirmed ASD and Developmental Coordination Disorder diagnosis.

CONCLUSION: His unremarkable neurocognitive profile suggested compensatory strategies may have masked symptoms. This case highlights need for bicultural/bilingual neuropsychologists with experience providing comprehensive ASD evaluations to practice from equitable framework, using the SRN model to enhance early detection, treatment recommendations, and advocacy for access to culturally/linguistically appropriate resources.