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.
©Jess Baker, Jane Kohlhoff, Se-Inyenede Onobrakpor, Sue Woolfenden, Rebecca Smith, Constanze Knebel, Valsamma Eapen. Originally published in JMIR mHealth and uHealth (http://mhealth.jmir.org), 23.04.2020.