A Public Health Imperative: Ethical, Educational, and Employment Challenges in the Transition from Childhood to Adulthood with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have become the focus of researchers, policymakers, and, most of all, the parents of children who are diagnosed with ASD.  Many states have laws that mandate some level of insurance coverage for services for children with ASD.  Public schools are required by federal law to provide free and appropriate education to children with special needs.  These children with autism will eventually experience the transition to adulthood with autism.  What are the unique ethical, educational, and employment challenges that this transition poses?  In this presentation, I will explore specifically two areas that are garnering more attention: 1) employment challenges for young adults with ASD (and its effect on health outcomes), and 2) the need for greater education of healthcare professional students in their training.  Both are issues related to social justice, as young people with ASD are vastly underemployed compared to their neurotypical peers (and even other young people with special health care needs).  Moreover, healthcare professionals can serve as agents of social change.  Thus, a more robust commitment to educating students in the healthcare professions about the unique set of challenges facing young adults with ASD is essential.