I'm a little fed-up of the number of doctors I come accross who know little to nothing about autism, although GP's have to know a little about a lot of conditions, given the likelyhood that most GP's will have autistic patients you'd think they'd at least have enough knowledge to make us comfortable and help deal with problems we may have.
As well as general GP's there's a lack of understanding with those who may deal with us on a more regular basis; doctors working within autism centres and ATOS 'doctors' - although it may be that they are purposfully playing dumb to get you to explain the exact problems in more detail...I shouldn't ever have to explain to doctors what is meant by; sensory issues, executive functioning problems, meltdowns, and stimming.
In situations like ATOS medicals I'm obviously going to be stressed, doctors should recognise that lack of eye contact and stimming (tapping fingers, flapping, rocking, leg rubbing, etc.) is a sign of distress. When talking to my GP they should be aware of co-morbid conditions like anxiety, and how it can effect my ability to function.
WHY do doctors still not understand autism?
What can be done to change this?
