A report on feedback in relation to Autism - Healthwatch Cornwall

Healthwatch Cornwall (HC) has received more than 62 patient feedback stories that relate specifically to Autism and Asperger’s so far in 2014. This feedback has been collected through outreach events across the county as well as a targeted outreach event held in partnership with Spectrum.

The majority of the feedback relates to the diagnosis process (Primary care) and the support once a diagnosis made (Community and Social Care). A number of feedback comments are in the report to give better understanding on what people are telling Healthwatch Cornwall.

Support received from the initial contact with a GP through to follow on support after diagnosis has been recorded as missing or non-existent for a large percentage of people that Healthwatch Cornwall had spoken to. Lack of training around Autism and Asperger’s for Primary care staff (GP and Dentists) is a common comment. Minimal support for family’s and people with ASD in the community is another well commented on theme with no support for families (respite) once somebody has received a diagnosis. People have used the word stranded and alone to describe how they feel.