Autism-specific health emergency management

Abstract

People with autism spectrum disorder find it much more difficult to access appropriate health services or providers compared to the neurotypical population. The reasons for this are complex and may include inappropriate diagnosis, lack of diagnosis, communication difficulties, comorbid conditions, sensory processing disorders, anxiety or depression. In most countries around the world, ASD individuals are increasingly presenting in emergency departments due to inadequate or unavailable outpatient care. In addition, it should be highlighted that autism-specific training of healthcare staff is lagging behind worldwide and practical training coordinated with the allied professions is needed. In my study, I would like to present the reasons for the high numbers of people with autism spectrum disorder presenting in emergency care and make recommendations for autism-specific care to be provided by health professionals.