Connecting Familes To The Autism Services They Need

An Upstate hospital is working to not only provide medical care, but put parents in contact with the community support they need as well.

By: | News Channel 7
Published: April 21, 2009

5 year old Michael Leiby has autism. His mother Susan says for many parents when they get the diagnosis what to do next can be a very scary thought.

Susan Leiby says, "It is incredibly frustrating you get the diagnosis and you just want to help your child. Yet you don't know where to go."

That's where the Greenville Hospital System's Children's Hospital Autism Program comes in, connecting families with the services they need.

Clinical Service Coordinator Jen Hutchison says, "There is a steady stream of families coming in and it is shocking to realize how many families in our community are in need of these services."

She is one of two people available to help you find what you need.

She says, "There are services out there that families may not even know exist. We have a lot of families that have never heard of occupational therapy and what that can do for a child."

Dr. Desmond Kelly says when it comes to the Autism disorder spectrum getting treatment is key and the faster it is done the better the outcome. He says they recognize the need for families to get help outside of the medical community while they are also getting medical help. Whether it is a church program, like the one at Brookwood Baptist or a way to get extra help filling out applications for Medicaid benefits and school programs.

Dr. Kelly says, "We were very much aware of that and very much aware of the stresses the family is facing the many questions they have."

According to Susan Leiby, as a parent, having one place to call to get the information you need means one less fight you have to face when battling Autism.
The Autism Program also works to get children diagnosed in a matter of months rather than the normal 4 to 6 months it can take. They are evidence-based.
Dr. Kelly says they are really focusing on identifying children three and under that may have autism.
If you would like information about the program or have a question about where to go for services for your child you can call Greenville Hospital System at 864-454-5644.