HSE launches new tiered approach to autism assessment and intervention

The HSE has launched a new Autism Assessment and Intervention Pathway Protocol (Autism Protocol).

On implementation, clinicians in the HSE, Section 38 and 39 organisations funded by the HSE and private providers will use the Autism Protocol. It is intended that this will provide a standardised and more specialised route for autism assessment.

The Autism Protocol has been developed with input from people with lived experience, clinicians involved in autism assessments, and staff in disability, primary care and mental health services.  

The protocol will introduce a tiered approach to autism assessment, which aligns with research evidence that some presentations of autism are easier to identify than are others.

Speaking at the launch, Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley said: “For the first ever time, there will be a standardised approach to undertaking Autism assessments throughout HSE and HSE-funded service. It is also the first time that adults can get an autism assessment through a standardised process. This represents a significant step forward in how we support Autistic people in Ireland.”

Teams using the protocol should be able to assess more people in a shorter time.

Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill said: “As Minister for Health I am committed to improving access to services for children and families, and to ensuring that care is delivered as early as possible, as close to home as possible, in line with the principles and goals of Sláintecare.

“The Autism Assessment and Intervention Pathways Protocol represents an important step in ensuring that services and staff have the guidance they need to put that goal into practice."

Minister of State at the Department of Children, Disability and Equality with special responsibility for Disability Emer Higgins said: “For the first time, we have a standardised assessment process across disability, primary care and mental health services, supported by new In-Reach teams to support community-based teams where needed.” 

Adults can self-refer, or parents/guardians may refer children if they believe they have autism.

Anne O’Connor, HSE CEO said: “The protocol promotes a neuro-affirmative approach to autism, meaning that differences and difficulties associated with autism are also associated with strengths to be valued, supported and built on.

“Implementing the protocol in the HSE Health Regions will begin in Quarter 3, supported by in-reach teams working to upskill autism assessment competency and confidence across all community teams to ensure inclusive practice, access and sustainability when supporting autistic people.”