Rural Autism ECHO: Strategies for Improving Healthcare for Autistic Patients in Rural Georgia

1. Identify common barriers to autism diagnosis and treatment in rural communities, including provider shortages, transportation challenges, long wait times, and insurance limitations. 2. Summarize how EarliPoint technology supports earlier autism detection and expands access to diagnostic services in rural areas. 3. Recognize the role of community-based research and data collection in identifying gaps in autism services and informing healthcare planning. 4. Describe practical ways healthcare providers and community members can support autism awareness, improve accessibility, and promote autism-inclusive communities. 5. Apply knowledge from the presentation to improve communication, referrals, advocacy, and support for autistic individuals and their families in rural settings.