Medical and Educational Needs for Autism

Michelle Hartley-McAndrew, MD, FAAP is a specialist in neurodevelopmental disabilities who is board certified in Pediatrics and board certified in Child Neurology. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the medical director of the Robert Warner Center for Developmental Pediatrics and Rehabilitation at the Oishei Children's Hospital in Buffalo, New York. She is a clinical associate professor of pediatrics and chief of the division of Developmental Pediatrics and Rehabilitation at the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo. Kathy Ralabate Doody, Ph.D. is a Professor at SUNY, Buffalo State University, preparing candidates to become special educators for individuals Birth-age 21. She holds a doctoral degree in Special Education with a concentration in ASD and a Master’s degree in early childhood special education. Prior to joining higher education, she was a special education teacher, working with young children with ASD while supporting their families. Her ASD research interests include the study of behavior, the development of play skills and social interaction, interprofessional collaboration, and family involvement.

1. What to expect at medical visits and how to prepare 2. Neurological considerations 3. Sleep disorders 4. Feeding/nutrition concerns 5. Toileting and GI concerns 6. Mental health concerns and dual diagnosis 7. Medication 8. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) 9. Collaboration strategies for key stakeholders (parent, educators, medical, other) 10. The IEP process and development 11. Communication strategies and how to develop language skills 12. Behavioural considerations 13. Activities of daily living (ADLs) 14 Incorporating evidence-based practices across environments 15. Conclusion