The Big Picture: Autistic adults face significantly higher rates of co-occurring physical and mental health conditions compared to the general population. The standard short doctor visit model is fundamentally ill-equipped to serve autistic patients. The study found that 58 minutes is sufficient for consultations, much less than most patients get with a doctor today.
Study Type: Systematic Review
Participants: 18 and over, diagnosed with autism, with and without intellectual disability
Key Findings:
- Systemic Neglect: Bright fluorescent lights, overwhelming waiting rooms, and the “on-the-spot” pressure to summarize complex internal sensations into verbal reports can lead to extreme distress.
- Preparation: To get the most out of the visit, 75% of autistic participants said that the ability to detail their communication preferences and health concerns before entering the clinic via a questionnaire was useful for sharing information about their communication and health concerns. However, 41% of participants found the questionnaire difficult or stressful.
- Communication Bridges: 64% said caregivers and supporters helped reduce patient anxiety
Access Status: Open Access / Free
Direct Link: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/13623613261433106
Adult Autism Insights 