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, PhD, is a Professor at SUNY, Buffalo State University, preparing candidates to become special educators for individuals from birth age to 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. Introduction and overview 2. What to expect at medical visits and how to prepare 3. Neurological considerations 4. Sleep concerns 5. Feeding/nutrition concerns 6. Toileting and GI concerns 7. Mental health concerns and dual diagnosis 8. Medication 9. Complementary and alternative treatments 10. Collaboration strategies for key stakeholders (parent, educators, medical providers) 11. IFSPs, IEPs, and Section 504 Plans 12. Communication strategies and how to develop language skills 13. Behavioral and teaching considerations 14. Evidence-based practices for addressing social skills 15. Conclusion