Objective:

To identify the barriers of child neurology and neurodevelopmental disability (CN/NDD) care among underserved pediatric populations and to study the need and feasibility of a mobile clinic program.

Background:

Neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder and learning disabilities, affect an estimated 10–20% of children living below 200% of the federal poverty level—about 5% higher than in higher-income populations. Barriers such as transportation, language, and specialist availability often delay diagnosis and interventions, worsening outcomes. Mobile clinics provide pediatric care to families facing such barriers. Despite this, specialist assessment is often delayed, with current CN/NDD wait times averaging 6–12 months, contributing to worse prognoses in this vulnerable population.

Design/Methods:

This descriptive study uses a cross-sectional needs assessment survey administered to parents of children seen at mobile clinics. The surveys assess demographics, developmental and neurologic concerns, resource utilization, barriers to care, and perspectives on integrating CN/NDD evaluations into mobile clinics. Survey are conducted in English and Spanish and data are collected via REDCap. Preliminary data collection is ongoing.

Results:

To date, we have conducted 21 parent surveys. Our preliminary results align with our hypothesis that there is a significant unmet need for neurologic and developmental evaluations, with transportation, language, and system navigation identified as leading barriers. We have received strong community interest in monthly CN/NDD mobile clinic visits.

Conclusions:

Integrating CN/NDD evaluations into mobile clinics is projected to reduce diagnostic delays, improve access to therapy, and strengthen equity in pediatric neurology care. This study’s findings will inform a pilot program for monthly mobile CN/NDD clinics to address unmet neurodevelopmental needs within underserved communities.