Hundreds of thousands of lives could be transformed by government plans to cut health inequalities for those with autism, says a charity.
The National Autistic Society (NAS) says the government’s new long-term plan for the NHS is a “once in a generation opportunity” to address the “appalling situation” faced by those with autism.
Launched by prime minister Theresa May, the plan promises that people with autism and learning disabilities will get the care they need to live happier, healthier and longer lives.
NAS chief executive Mark Lever thinks the NHS’s long-term plan is a “once in a generation” chance to improve the lives of those with autism
Much worse physical and mental health
NAS chief executive Mark Lever said research shows autistic people have much worse physical and mental health. They also had a greater risk of dying early.
In addition, they wait “many months” and “even years” for a diagnosis and sometimes can’t get any support, Lever said.
He added: “This can be devastating, leaving autistic people and their families to fall into crisis and isolation.”
Plan’s promises
The NHS’s long-term plan promises to cut diagnostic waiting times. It also includes the pledge to pilot annual health checks to improve support for physical and mental health.
Lever said NHS England must now “put in the funds” to back up the promises.
“If NHS England and the government really focus on autism, and work with autistic people and families, they could transform hundreds of thousands of lives,” Lever said.
The plan also promises to continue efforts to stop the over-medication of those with autism and learning disabilities.
In addition, it aims to restrict seclusion, segregation and restraint in hospitals.
It also promises better investment in intensive community support.
Meanwhile, it aims to halve the numbers of people with autism and learning disabilities in hospitals by 2023/24 compared with 2015 levels.
Awareness training is also promised for NHS staff.
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Published: 17 January 2019
