The level of supports and services available to people with autism are being reviewed by the HSE and the Minister for Health is calling on those affected to make submissions to this review.

A working group has been established to carry out the review and this will 'consider the operational effectiveness of existing health service responses in addressing the particular needs of those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and seek to identify models of good practice.

ASD is a biological disorder of the brain that impairs communication and social skills. Signs can include an absence of eye contact, apparent aloofness, avoidance of physical contact even with family, difficulty dealing with interruptions to routine and a lack of interest in other children and what they are doing.

The Minister for Health, Simon Harris, is encouraging people with ASD, their parents and healthcare professionals to make submissions to the review.

"I want to ensure that people with ASD have access to the necessary supports to enable them to reach their full potential and live rich and fulfilling lives. I recognise the need for a strategic approach to enhancing the responsiveness and effectiveness of services to meet the evolving needs of people with ASD," Minister Harris said

He noted that the working group aims to identify models of good practice, but also to identify models of practice 'that are not having a positive impact'.

"It is important that we identify where in the country services are operating well and where they are not. The HSE has now invited submissions from service users, parents and practitioners and I want to encourage people to take the opportunity to have their voices heard," he said.

The Minister has also asked the Department of Health to initiaite a research study into the prevalence and future projections for ASD, which will help the health service to plan for the future.

"Following the advancement of this work, I intend to proceed next year with a national strategy for enhancing the health service response to people with ASD," Minister Harris added.

For more information, or to make a submission, click here