"Know, Say, Do": How We’re Building an Inclusive Clinic for Our Autistic Community'

At Family Medical Practices, we’ve always felt that "awareness" was just the starting line. You can be aware of something without really getting it. That’s why we’re so behind this year’s theme from Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia): "Know, Say, Do."

It’s a call to action for all of us in the Shire to move past the labels and start looking at the practical ways we can make life and healthcare more comfortable for our Autistic neighbours and friends.

Know: Understanding the Spectrum

The first step is knowing that no two Autistic people are the same. In a medical setting, this is huge. For one patient, the sensory input of a busy waiting room is the biggest hurdle. For another, it might be the "small talk" or the way we describe physical symptoms. We’re training our team to understand things like masking the intense energy it takes for Autistic people to "act neurotypical" and how that can lead to burnout.

Say: Communication That Works

We’re changing the way we talk. Instead of assuming how you feel, we’re asking: "How do you prefer to receive information today?" Some of our patients find it much easier to communicate through written notes or via a support person. We’re also learning to be clearer with our instructions, dropping the medical metaphors and getting straight to the facts, which helps take the guesswork out of a GP visit.

Do: Practical Changes at FMP

This is where the rubber hits the road. Here’s what we’re "doing" to make our Kirrawee, Woolooware, and Kurnell clinics more inclusive:

• Sensory Adjustments: If you need the lights dimmed or a quieter corner to wait in, just ask.
• Longer Appointments: We offer 30-minute blocks so there’s time to process information without feeling the "ticking clock" of a standard consult.
• Visual Aids: Using diagrams and clear "next step" checklists so you leave the clinic feeling confident, not confused.

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Healthcare should be a safe space for everyone. This month, we’re inviting you to tell us what you need us to "do" to make your experience better.

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