Andrew Kavchak and his son Steven are shown in their home in Ottawa on March 3, 2023. (Adrian Wyld / The Canadian Press via CTV News)
A new federal plan for addressing autism spectrum disorder is a step in the right direction, but more efforts are needed to improve access to care, says one advocate.
The framework, unveiled last month, aims to coordinate services and support for people living with this lifelong neurodevelopmental condition, as well as their families, caregivers, and supporters, according to the government.
Andrew Kavchak, a member of the Canadian Autism Treatment for Medicare Coalition, is not expecting the framework to bring immediate changes but is hopeful for its long-term impact.
In an interview with media Kavchak said, "After 20 years of lobbying, the federal government has finally recognized there is a problem affecting the autism community nationwide".
Kavchak’s 23-year-old son, Steven, was diagnosed with severe autism in 2003.
"As far as I can tell, this strategy for now just means more Zoom meetings and consultations in the short term," he added.
Looking ahead, Kavchak and other advocates are calling for governments to go beyond these initial steps, focusing on real solutions like improved access to treatment, group homes, and universal healthcare.
In Ontario, where Kavchak lives, autism treatment is managed by the Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services, but lengthy waitlists are a persistent issue.
"They lack the resources and expertise," said Kavchak, who has written two books on autism policy. He believes that if services were offered through the Ministry of Health, access would be much faster.
In 2019, the Canadian government’s health survey found that 1 in 50 youth under 17, or about 2 percent, were diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
"The government needs to change its approach and start investing in real action instead of just forming more committees," he urged.
For more information on the new framework and autism, visit Health Canada’s website.
