Creating Supporting Healthcare & Mental Health Services for Neurodivergent Individuals

Individuals with autism often have differences from neurotypical patients related to communication, pain perception, and other treatments, highlighting the importance of autism training for hospital and emergency department staff. This can help prevent unnecessary care delays or misdiagnosis, patient anxiety, and potential sensory meltdowns. Bergen New Bridge Medical Center’s Emergency Department recently received the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). In addition to the training and certification, IBCCES also completed an onsite review of the Medical Center to provide additional recommendations to enhance the overall experience for autistic and sensory-sensitive patients and their families.Darian Eletto, Chief Clinical Officer, Behavioral Health Services, and Julia Orlando, Vice President of Integrative Services, will discuss the certification process and what it means for Bergen New Bridge.