Background

The focus of this fifth paper in the series is Module 5 of the WHO’s Package of Interventions, PIR – Neurodevelopmental Disorders. The satellite material, included in the appendix, provides information on the evidence base for the recommendationsin the guidance. These recommendations specifically refer to the best quality clinical practice guidelines and Cochrane systematic reviews.

Aims

As with the rest of the series, we consider the document from the perspective of physiotherapy recommendations within a multidisciplinary approach to functioning and interventions.

Material and methods

This series of brief communications is characterised by its narrative review style. It is regarded as a scientific endeavour that encourages the posing of questions and the stimulation of discussion, while formulating opinion that is as balanced as possible and based on data rather than intuition.

Results and conclusions

We provide a summary of the module and present recommendations for autism spectrum disorders (disorders of intellectual development are beyond the scope of this concise paper). As with each paper, our focus is on physiotherapy, and we highlight Georgia’s pioneering role as the first country to adopt the package within its healthcare system. The PIR regards physiotherapy as central to rehabilitation,but also emphasises the important roles of other professions. The recommendations for autism spectrum disorders reflect this approach.