Background: Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) are underdiagnosed in Australia, and health professionals\r\nhave endorsed the need for national guidelines for diagnosis. The aim of this study was to develop consensus\r\nrecommendations for the diagnosis of FASD in Australia.\r\nMethods: A panel of 13 health professionals, researchers, and consumer and community representatives with relevant\r\nexpertise attended a 2-day consensus development workshop to review evidence on the screening and diagnosis of\r\nFASD obtained from a systematic literature review, a national survey of health professionals and community group\r\ndiscussions. The nominal group technique and facilitated discussion were used to review the evidence on screening\r\nand diagnosis, and to develop consensus recommendations for the diagnosis of FASD in Australia.\r\nResults: The use of population-based screening for FASD was not recommended. However, there was consensus\r\nsupport for the development of standard criteria for referral for specialist diagnostic assessment. Participants developed\r\nconsensus recommendations for diagnostic categories, criteria and assessment methods, based on the adaption of\r\nelements from both the University of Washington 4-Digit Diagnostic Code and the Canadian guidelines for FASD\r\ndiagnosis. Panel members also recommended the development of resources to: facilitate consistency in referral and\r\ndiagnostic practices, including comprehensive clinical guidelines and assessment instruments; and to support\r\nindividuals undergoing assessment and their parents or carers.\r\nConclusions: These consensus recommendations provide a foundation for the development of guidelines and\r\nother resources to promote consistency in the diagnosis of FASD in Australia. Guidelines for diagnosis will require\r\nreview and evaluation in the Australian context prior to national implementation as well as periodic review to\r\nincorporate new knowledge.
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