Research Article: Barriers and facilitators to primary healthcare encounters as reported by autistic adults: a qualitative study
Abstract:
Background: Primary care is designed to co-manage health concerns, contribute to preventive care, and provide medical care coordination. Receiving primary care may be especially vital for autistic people, many of whom disproportionately experience psychiatric and physical health conditions. However, autistic adults often face barriers to receiving primary care, and first-hand accounts of these challenges are limited. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to describe barriers and facilitators to primary care encounters as reported by autistic adults.
Introduction:
Objective characteristics included insurance, office location, and transportation-related factors. Participants noted that insurance was essential, albeit “a hassle,” describing that “It’s not the doctors, it’s the insurance that has been [causing] a lot of trouble lately.” Ease of transportation access and location of the office were also critical in finding and choosing a doctor.
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