Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex life-long neurodevelopmental disorder that affects 1.1% of the UK population. It is a social communication disorder that is also characterised by rigid and repetitive routines or behaviours, and sensory sensitivities. This makes it a challenge for both the individual and the GP to have a successful consultation. There is also a very uneven profile of abilities, language skills may be limited, non-verbal understanding may be limited, and expectations of the outcome of the consultation may well be different from those of the 'neuro-typical' patient. For these reasons, it is important to have the diagnosis of autism clearly marked on the patient records, and for the doctor to adjust his or her consultations skills to suit the person consulting.
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