Autism- Support Services, Initiatives, and Research to Improve an Individual’s Quality of Life

Hi everybody. Did you know that an estimated 1 in 36 people in the U.S. has autism?  Those numbers are likely to be similar in other parts of the world. The good news is that there are plenty of services available to help those who have autism... and those who support them. Even better, there are initiatives and medical research underway which may further improve the quality of life for those who have autism. My guest expert, Chris Banks, discusses these things and much more on this episode of Health Care on the Horizon. Among other things, Chris speaks about (1) what are some common things to look for with a potentially autistic child, (2) when testing should first begin to test for autism, (3) who should make an autism diagnosis, and (4) why about 4 times as many boys as girls are diagnosed with autism. Spoiler alert: You may be surprised to hear Chris' answer. You'll also learn about some of the life-enhancing initiatives the Autism Society is moving forward, where to get help if you are caring for someone who has autism, and some exciting medical research on the autism front. Finally, Chris gives some important tips for those with autism-- and those who assist them. Now a little more about Chris. Christopher Banks is the President and CEO of the Autism Society of America. https://autismsociety.org/ Chris has a comprehensive background of serving the nonprofit community.  He has worked in a wide variety of organizations including medical centers, community hospitals, assisted living communities, secondary and higher education institutions, national parks, human service organizations, and religious communities.  He has a successful record of significantly increasing fundraising support, measurably improving revenue strategies, and dramatically transforming culture, diversity, and inclusion.  Chris has been providing executive direction and leadership for the Autism Society since the beginning of 2020.  At the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, he pivoted the national organization to be a resource, service, and support enterprise for the affiliates, individuals, and families.   Chris is establishing long-lasting relationships with external partners, philanthropic organizations, and elected officials to further policy efforts and fundraising activities of the Society.  Chris has an MBA in Finance from Manhattan College, and his MS (Human Resources Administration) and BA degrees (Human Resources and Philosophy) are from The University of Scranton. I invite you to LISTEN, ENJOY, LEARN, COMMENT, and SHARE this episode! If you are interested in advertising or sponsoring an episode (or more) of Health Care on the Horizon-- or distributing our content-- please let us know. **You’ll find more information about my business, Jeff Ostroff & Associates, LLC, in the middle of this episode and by visiting https://www.jeff-ostroff.com/ On the website, you can also contact us about the various marketing and communications services we offer, such as (1) podcast hosting, creation, consulting, and column writing, (2) professional voice overs, (3) B2B/B2C interviewing for individuals and businesses looking to promote themselves or better understand their customers and prospects, (4) consulting/training on how to excel behind or in front of the microphone as an interviewer or guest, and (5) senior marketing assistance. (Hey, I've actually written a book about that!) You can also reach me at jeff@jeff-ostroff.com** If you enjoy this episode, please be sure to tell your family, friends, and other members of YOUR network...