The Autism-Friendly Hospital Initiative at Sidra Medicine is a pioneering pilot program designed to ensure that children with autism receive compassionate and supportive care during hospital visits. Inspired by international best practices and thoughtfully adapted to the Qatari context, the initiative aims to create calmer, more accessible healthcare experiences for children with autism spectrum disorder and their families.

Built around a three-step approach, personalized child-centered care, staff training, and parent training supported by a dedicated Parent Resource Guide, the program equips healthcare professionals with the skills needed to deliver exceptional care from arrival through discharge. It addresses common challenges children with autism may face in medical settings, including sensory overload, communication barriers, and heightened anxiety.

Key components of the initiative include staff alerts when a child with autism is registered, fast-track services to reduce waiting times, designated parking spaces, sensory toolkits, and communication supports such as picture boards and digital applications. Parents complete an Autism Support Checklist outlining their child’s sensory and communication needs, which is incorporated into the medical record. Healthcare providers also receive both online and in-person training to ensure autism-friendly care is consistently delivered across all departments.