New research from Elly Greenwood explores how emergency departments (EDs) can unintentionally fail Autistic children and their parents.
“EDs are often loud, unpredictable and overwhelming environments. Parents of autistic children frequently enter these settings feeling anxious, carrying the burden of advocating, interpreting and protecting their child within systems that are not designed for neurodivergent needs,” Elly says.
Her research found that ED experiences are not isolated clinical events, but deeply relational and systemic experiences shaped over time.
“Distress often begins before families arrive at hospital and can continue long after discharge, contributing to cumulative trauma, healthcare avoidance and advocacy fatigue.”
Elly says the findings highlight the need for trauma-informed, autism-affirming and family-centred emergency care.
“This includes improved staff education, sensory-responsive environments, flexible communication approaches and greater recognition of parents as essential partners in care.”
The next stage of Elly’s research, which forms part of her PhD, explores the experiences of ED staff who care for Autistic children and their families.
“At its core, this research is about making invisible experiences visible and ensuring future healthcare systems are safer, more compassionate, and more inclusive for Autistic children, their families, and the staff who care for them.”
