For many patients, especially those with intellectual disabilities, a routine visit to the doctor's office is anything but routine. Interactions with the healthcare system can expose inequitable access, overstimulation and stigmatized perceptions. To train care professionals in improving these interactions and building inclusive healthcare spaces, Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C., offers Autism Behavioral Consult services for tailored care in medical settings. Providing tools and resources for medical staff and parents, the program makes procedures and treatments more approachable for children with communication, sensory and behavioral sensitivities.
On this episode of Inclusion Revolution Radio, hosted by RJ Nealon, Katherine Williamson, a pediatric occupational therapist and Autism Behavioral Consult program manager, speaks to her work supporting neurodivergent children and those with complex trauma, working to make healthcare experiences safer, more supportive and less overwhelming for kids and their families. Support includes:
- Recommendations for communication, sensory and procedural accommodations in medical settings
- Preparation facilitated by a developmental neuropsychologist for care and procedures
- Online resources and role kits for at-home practice before a procedure
Joining Katherine, disability advocates and Special Olympics New Jersey athletes Patrice Jetter and Garry Wickham share their personal experiences navigating the healthcare system as individuals with intellectual disabilities. Patrice and Garry are stars of the Emmy Award-winning documentary-style romantic comedy “Patrice: The Movie,” which continues to drive conversation around marriage equality for people with intellectual disabilities.
Wanting to solidify their love story in marriage, Patrice and Garry find that marrying or even moving in together would cut the government benefits they depend on to survive. Working to create a world they want to live in, Patrice and Garry continue to fight the systemic barriers, including those within the healthcare system, that prevent them from living life on their own terms.
