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Challenges of Accessing Healthcare for Autistic Individuals
Autistic individuals face unique challenges when it comes to accessing healthcare. They often see the world through a different lens, which can make tasks like going to the doctor’s office a challenge. Stigmas surrounding autism can lead to the dismissal of certain illnesses and unpleasant health care experiences for autistic individuals, which can prompt them to push off important care.
Negative experiences with healthcare providers and other intimidating factors have prevented some autistic individuals from seeking care. For example, Amy Noyes, an autistic individual and patient at All Brains Belong, found healthcare inaccessible due to factors like difficulty making phone calls or filling out wellness exam forms.
All Brains Belong: A Non-Profit Designed for Neurodivergent Individuals
All Brains Belong is a non-profit healthcare organization designed specifically for neurodivergent individuals. It was founded by Dr. Melissa Houser, who experienced first-hand the need for a less clinical feeling environment to support autistic individuals.
All Brains Belong provides a variety of options to support the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals. For example, patients can choose how to make appointments, how to communicate during visits, and how to support sensory processing, communication, and executive function. The goal is to create a more accessible and comfortable environment for neurodivergent individuals seeking healthcare.
Why Autistic Individuals Need Accessible Healthcare
Autistic individuals have a life expectancy of 36 to 54 years, and the leading causes of death are premature cardiovascular disease and suicide. Dr. Houser emphasizes that recognizing neuroimmune conditions early on can make a big difference in the health outcomes for autistic individuals.
Other autistic individuals, like Sarah Knutson, highlight their need for autonomy in healthcare decision-making. They want treatment options and recommendations tailored to their unique needs rather than receiving a “one-size-fits-all” approach.
The Key Change Needed in Healthcare Systems
According to Noyes, Knutson, and Houser, the biggest change that needs to happen in healthcare is shifting the provider mindset that views autism as a deficit. Instead, providers should focus on creating a more inclusive and accessible healthcare environment that supports the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals. Until this change occurs, many autistic individuals will continue to struggle to access and receive the care they need.
Resources Available through All Brains Belong
All Brains Belong offers community groups for neurodivergent individuals and training for healthcare providers. These resources aim to improve the accessibility and quality of healthcare for the neurodivergent community.
Visit All Brains Belong to learn more about their services and how to get involved.
Conclusion
Autistic individuals face unique challenges when it comes to accessing healthcare. Stigmas surrounding autism and negative experiences with healthcare providers can make it difficult for them to seek and receive the care they need. All Brains Belong is a non-profit organization that aims to create a more inclusive and accessible healthcare environment for neurodivergent individuals. The key change needed in healthcare systems is a shift in the provider mindset from viewing autism as a deficit to creating healthcare that is personalized, inclusive, and accessible for all individuals.
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