Ep 134: Expanding Autism Understanding and Equity in Healthcare

Dr. Kristen Sohl, a pediatrician and founder of Echo Autism Communities, discusses Project ECHO—a model that connects specialists with generalists via virtual sessions to improve care for people in rural and underserved areas—and explains how it has expanded in Missouri to support fields like autism, HIV, chronic pain, and developmental disabilities. She describes the structure of an ECHO session, emphasizing community learning through case presentations and short “knowledge bursts.” The conversation shifts to the evolution of autism understanding, noting increased prevalence largely due to improved screening, better diagnostic criteria, and broader awareness, while also addressing misinformation, the complexity of autism, and the lack of definitive causes. Dr. Sohl stresses the importance of trust with families, evidence‑based care, and caution with unsupported treatments. She concludes with three priorities for improving outcomes: better supports for people with profound autism, greater societal appreciation of autistic strengths, and stronger disability training in healthcare education, advocating for equitable, human‑centered care for all.