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27 PADI: distance care platform for the integral development of individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism in Latin America

bmjpo · 2026-07-14 · canonical JSON source

3 visible annotations · policy: published · automated confidence ≥ 75.00%

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Objectives To reduce barriers to specialized education and therapy for individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) and autism in Latin America through a scalable, virtual intervention model. The goal is to promote inclusive development, family empowerment, and long-term improvements in quality of life, regardless of geographic or socioeconomic limitations.Methods PADI (Programa de Atención a Distancia) is a virtual platform created by the Instituto Neurológico de Guatemala. It delivers personalized, multidisciplinary care plans—including education, adaptive skills training, occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and psychosocial support—via online tools. Each plan is tailored based on developmental needs, and families are trained to act as co-educators and co-therapists. A pilot group of 100 users launched in September 2024, with data collected through structured sessions, caregiver feedback, and service tracking tools.Results By mid-2025, PADI has reached over 200 active users, with an additional 200 in the onboarding process. Preliminary outcomes show improved daily routines, increased access to previously unavailable services, and greater caregiver engagement. Families report reduced emotional and logistical burden and increased hope for long-term inclusion. The platform’s asynchronous content, combined with weekly live sessions, has enabled broad access across rural and underserved communities.Conclusions PADI is a pioneering digital inclusion model in Latin America. It demonstrates the feasibility and impact of virtual care in neurodevelopmental disability support. With appropriate partnerships, the program is ready for regional replication and integration into broader inclusive policies and practices.