Queensland Centre for Intellectual and Developmental Disability
The Queensland Centre for Intellectual and Developmental Disability is a research centre devoted to improving the health and mental health of adults with intellectual or developmental disability and those on the autism spectrum. QCIDD was established in 1997 and its significant achievements include development of the CHAP (Comprehensive Health Assessment Program) and the Ask Diary, tools to assist people with intellectual disability and / or autism, to access healthcare. We have also developed the world's first Massive Open Online Course on Intellectual Disability Health (AbleX MOOC) and been part of the Autism CRC Program 3 (Adults). Our current work includes projects to improve access to healthcare and two projects on Down syndrome (clinical registry; investigation of catatonia and acute regression). We also participate in clinical trial work in collaboration with our clinical service, the Mater Intellectual Disability and Autism Service (MIDAS).
Our research focusses on 3 main areas affecting adults with intellectual or developmental disability and those on the autism spectrum:
- Improving healthcare for this population
- Understanding the health and mental health problems prevalent in this population
- Investigating treatments for conditions affecting this population
To undertake this work, we have active collaborations with researchers across Australia (The University of Queensland, Griffith University, University of NSW) and in the United States (Massachusetts General / Harvard Medical School, Boston; several other USA universities) and Rome and with clinical services including Queensland Health Mental Health Alcohol and Other Drugs Branch and QH Mental Health Services.