Identifying Components of Autism Friendly Health Care: An Exploratory Study Using a Modified Delphi Method

Abstract

Objectives: Autistic individuals report lower health care satisfaction. However, there is currently no set of "best practice" standards about caring for autistic individuals. In this exploratory study, we aim to identify features of Autism Friendly practice according to a sample consisting of mainly professionals whose interests include autism using a modified 3-round Delphi-a method that identifies a consensus view across subject participants. Methods: Statements about components of an Autism Friendly health care practice were compiled in consultation with the steering committee of an Autism Friendly Initiative at a single, urban academic safetynet hospital. Participants were recruited through our national network of professionals and patients/families mailing list. Examples of invited professionals included researchers, health care workers, and educators. In the first 2 rounds, we distributed electronic surveys to participants, who scored statements from 1 to 9 regarding importance. In round 2, statements that were scored low by all stakeholder groups were eliminated. Seventyeight participants responded to the first-round survey, and 51 participants responded to the second-round survey. In the third round, 38 participants ranked 16 statements from most to least important. Statements are summarized and presented in the Results section. Results: Topics that emerged from highly ranked statements include environmental/operational modifications (e.g., longer appointment times) and staff training to support autistic patients. Conclusion: Highly ranked statements represented previously reported barriers, including the need for staff training and inclusive engagement with the autistic community. The findings can help inform health care organizations to determine priorities when building an Autism Friendly health care practice.

The Assessment of Comprehensive Care for Autistic Children Provided by Polish Primary Healthcare Physicians in Parental View

“…The strategies included seeing the autistic patient by the same doctor, as well as seeing the patient on time, adjusting the sensory environment to the individual’s needs, and explaining the performed procedure to the patient. 32 - 34 The “general” category consisted of 3 statements (items: 6, 8, 18). To assess the level of comprehensive care for autistic patients the original 0 to 3 points coding algorithm was suggested, where 3 means the physicians’ behavior or strategies highly contributing to child and family support and 0 means an inadequate level of support in the category.…”