Special Needs Patients Need Special Considerations—and Some Centers Are Prepared to Provide Them

Patients with special needs may offer particular challenges for urgent care providers and front desk staff. Communication, for example, can be difficult when working with individuals on the autism spectrum. Recognizing this, Heavens Urgent Care in Apache Junction, AZ has ensured that every staff member be trained to “better identify, communicate, and treat patients who may be autistic and need adjustments to their clinical experience or treatment,” according to an article published by the Apache Junction/Gold Canyon Independent. Heavens is the first urgent care center in Arizona to gain designation as a Certified Autism Center from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). Given that one out of every 44 8-year-olds has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, per current data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it’s likely you’re seeing children (and probably adults) with ASD frequently whether you know it or not. Consider finding out rates of ASD in your state or community, or consulting IBCCES resources to learn more about certification or working with ASD patients. An article in the JUCM archives might be useful, as well; you can read Treating Autistic Patients in the Urgent Care Setting right now.