PROFESSIONAL PERSPECTIVE > DR . KRISTINE TURKO, BCBA , CO BA
HEALTHY HEROES: Advocating for Quality Healthcare
BY DR. KRISTINE TURKO, BCBA, COBA
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all is here, and with it comes the start of flu season. As we spend more time indoors, the chances of getting sick go up, and so does the likelihood of needing a doctor’s visit. For individuals with autism, doctor’s visits can be challenging, and the quality of care they receive can suffer. Routine check-ups and vaccinations are often skipped, adding to the risk. Autism is a developmental disorder that affects 1 in 36 people (CDC, 2023), with boys being four times more likely to have it than girls. It’s found across all ethnic groups, although it’s diagnosed later and less frequently in underserved communities due to barriers in healthcare access. Autism comes with characteristics like difficulty in communication and social interaction, rigid routines, repetitive behavior, and specific interests. These traits make medical care more complicated, and caregivers often need to advocate for those on the spectrum. Many autistic adults skip routine appointments like check-ups, vaccinations, or
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dental visits due to the fear of being misunderstood or ignored. A recent study published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders examined healthcare workers’ proficiency in treating autistic patients (Corden, Brewer, & Cage, 2022). The findings suggest that healthcare workers often lack knowledge, self-confidence, and training in treating autistic patients. This creates potential challenges for both healthcare providers and patients. While medical professionals work on better training for patientcentered care that recognizes individual needs, we can advocate for those with autism by helping healthcare workers accommodate sensory, physical, and communication needs. Here are a few suggestions: • Use a verbal and visual picture schedule that outlines the steps of an office visit to minimize uncertainty and reduce anxiety. • Request a quiet waiting space at the doctor’s office to minimize sensory overload.
• Request the first or last appointment of the day when the office is not as busy. • Establish a relationship with your healthcare provider prior to a physical exam by scheduling a pre-visit. • Role-play the office visit or find a youtube video that demonstrates the process. It’s critical to recognize the unique challenges individuals with autism face when seeking medical care. Understanding the characteristics of autism and advocating for sensoryfriendly and accommodating healthcare environments can make a significant difference in the well-being of those on the spectrum. While healthcare professionals work on improving their training, we all have a role to play in ensuring that individuals with autism receive the quality care they deserve. If you would like the opportunity to practice going to the doctor’s office, see the event information below!
