AUTISM

Individuals with Autism experience difficulties in flexible social interaction and communication and  rigid/repetitive behaviours or interests. ​As many as 1 in 100 people are affected by Autism.

 

There are many other terms used  such as High Functioning Autism, Asperger's Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Condition. The medically recognised term for Autism is Autism Spectrum Disorder.

 

Autism may be present with other medical conditions as well, therefore an expert evaluation is recommended.

ASSESSMENT

The assessment of Autism includes:

  • A detailed history of the child’s development and presentation

  • Medical Examination is very important to rule out medical conditions therefore a paediatrician assessment is necessary

  • Observation/ Information from more than one setting such as educational setting if applicable or information from other professionals involved

Investigations are not routinely indicated but  may be necessary depending on individual presentation

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There are a number of Autism specific tools that can be used for assessment. These include but are not limited to

ADOS-2

ADI-R

3Di

BOSA

TELE ASD PEDS

CONDITIONS 

There are a number of conditions that can co-exist with Autism. The presence of other conditions can sometimes mask the presentation of Autism. These conditions include but not limited to

​

  • Global Developmental Delay or Learning Disability

  • Dyspraxia or Developmental Coordination Disorder 

  • Epilepsy

  • Chromosomal Disorders and syndromes etc.

Therefore assessment by a medical expert is required to identify them

Impact of Autism

Children  with Autism may have  functional and or mental health and behavioural problems

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Functional Problems and Disorders

  • Eating Disorders such as Avoidant and Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)

  • Urinary Incontinence

  • Faecal Incontinence

  • Sleep Disorders

 

Mental health and Behaviour Problems and Disorder

  • ADHD

  • Anxiety and Phobias

  • Mood Disorders

  • Oppositional Defiant Disorder

  • Tics or Tourette Syndrome

  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

  • Self-Injurious behaviours

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Therefore an expert assessment is recommended to ensure these conditions are recognised and managed appropiately

MANAGEMENT

There are a number of conditions that can co-exist with Autism. The presence of other conditions can sometimes mask the presentation of Autism. These conditions include but not limited to

​

  • Global Developmental Delay or Learning Disability

  • Dyspraxia or Developmental Coordination Disorder 

  • Epilepsy

  • Chromosomal Disorders and syndromes etc.

Therefore assessment by a medical expert is required to identify them

BOOK THE RIGHT ASSESSMENT

Supporting a child or young person with Autism is a joint responsibility of all those involved with them.

Adorable Girl with Pediatrician

ROLE OF HEALTH

Establish Accurate Diagnosis in a timely manner

Identification of other conditions that may be associated with Autism

Management of conditions such as ADHD, Sleep Difficulties and Aggression

Management and advice on sensory and co-ordination issues 

Advice and support parents and other professionals 

Contribute to Education Health and Care Plan Assessment etc

Cute Girl in Classroom

ROLE OF EDUCATION

According to the Special Education Needs and Disability Code of practice, education settings should make reasonable adjustment for Children and Young people with Autism.

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Autism Education Trust provides a rich source of information advice and support for schools and educational authorities.

Decorating easter Eggs

ROLE OF SOCIAL CARE

There are a range of benefits that may be available to families with children who have a diagnosis of Autism such as Disability Living Allowance, Carers Allowance etc.​

Each local authority publishes their Local Offer that helps parents navigate through the services available locally for children and young people with Autism and other Special Education Needs and Disability

Opening Hours

Mon – Fri 17.00 – 20.00

Saturday 09.00 – 13.00

Sunday 09.00 – 10.00

Contact Details

Location

Autism Doctor

Neurodevelopmental Services Private Limited 

Spire Bushey Hospital

Heathbourne Road

Bushey

Hertfordshire, WD23 1RD

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