Creating Inclusive Medical Care for Autistic Individuals

At ABS Kids, we’re here to support families raising autistic children by highlighting Dr. Ross’s pioneering work in inclusive autism care and creating sensory-friendly medical environments.  

By Jeremi Fulmore, Communications Associate at ABS Kids 

This week’s episode of the Autism Weekly podcast featured an inspiring discussion with Dr. Wendy J. Ross, the inaugural Director of Jefferson’s Center for Autism and Neurodiversity. Dr. Ross shared her unique journey into autism advocacy and outlined her pioneering initiatives aimed at making medical care more inclusive and supportive for neurodivergent individuals and their families. 

With a focus on programs like the Autism Airport Inclusion Program and strategies for coordinating health, design, and community engagement, Dr. Ross’s work sets a high standard for inclusive practices. 

Dr. Ross took a creative, non-traditional route to medicine, blending her interest in humanities with a passion for pediatric care. Her experiences in underserved communities led her to advocate for neurodiverse individuals, aiming to bridge gaps in care. 

At Jefferson Health, Dr. Ross’s vision thrives. The hospital’s integration of a School of Design allows her to create spaces that go beyond accessibility to foster true belonging. 

“Some families can’t even enter a space because it doesn’t feel safe or welcoming,” Dr. Ross says. 

Dr. Ross developed the Autism Airport Inclusion Program, which prepares autistic individuals for air travel with practice runs. She also partnered with MillerKnoll to redesign waiting room seating to be more sensory-friendly, ensuring a welcoming environment for all. 

A cornerstone of Dr. Ross’s approach is listening to the neurodiverse community. By involving families in the design process and paying attention to nonverbal feedback, she ensures that the spaces and programs created are genuinely helpful. 

Inclusive design doesn’t end with the physical space. Dr. Ross advocates for staff training on neurodiversity and empathy.  

“Sometimes, the simplest acts of kindness can make a huge difference,” she says. 

Tips for Families Navigating Medical Care 

Dr. Ross’s insights are particularly valuable for families raising autistic children. Navigating medical care can be a challenging experience, but there are strategies that can help: 

1. Dr. Ross recommends using visual stories or videos to prepare children for their medical visits. Many hospitals and clinics offer these resources, or parents can create their own. 
2. Don’t hesitate to ask medical facilities if they offer sensory-friendly waiting rooms or other accommodations. “Many places are more willing to make adjustments than families might realize,” Dr. Ross explained. 
3. Sensory bags with headphones, sunglasses, and fidget toys can make a visit more manageable. 
4. Families can encourage their local medical centers to invest in staff training on neurodiversity. Well-trained staff can make a significant difference in the overall experience. 
5. If a visit goes well or could have been improved, share that feedback with the medical team. “We learn best when we know what we’re doing right and what we can do better,” Dr. Ross said. 

Dr. Ross believes inclusion is about more than access – it’s about creating spaces where individuals feel they truly belong. This approach is central to ABS Kids’ mission to support families and individuals with autism. 

Dr. Ross’s work continues to evolve, and her focus on listening and adapting ensures a more inclusive future for neurodivergent individuals. Check out the Autism Weekly podcast to hear more about Dr. Ross’s inspiring initiatives and vision for inclusive healthcare.