The A.C.T. is designed to be simple, flexible, and easy to use. It helps autistic individuals prepare for healthcare appointments and share important information with healthcare professionals. Here’s how it works:
1. Complete the A.C.T. before your appointment
Fill out the A.C.T. in a calm, quiet space where you can take your time. You can do this at home, with support if needed.
You can fill it out online or print a blank copy to fill in by hand.
The form includes two sections—one for care navigators/reception staff to help you with any adjustments while waiting for your appointment (e.g. waiting in a quiet area).
hand the other section to the clinician to provide information about:
- The reason for your appointment
- Any symptoms you're experiencing
- How you prefer to communicate
- What will happen next
Guidance notes are included to help you fill it in. You don’t need to write long answers—short and clear is best.
2. Submit the A.C.T. to your healthcare provider
Bring the completed A.C.T. to your appointment.
Hand in the appropriate section to the receptionist/care navigator to assist while waiting.
The second section should be handed to your clinician at the beginning of your appointment.
If your surgery accepts forms in advance, you can send it beforehand by email—but the strength of the form lies in the fact that it is owned by you, the patient. Having a copy with you ensures the information won’t go missing and that it will be prioritised.
3. Your healthcare provider uses it during the consultation
Your healthcare professional will use the information you’ve provided to:
- Understand your concerns right away
- Adjust how they speak or interact with you
- Focus on the things that matter to you
- Make the appointment less stressful
They may also refer back to the form to make sure they’ve answered your questions and explained the next steps clearly.
4. Take the form with you or leave it behind
After the appointment, you can take your A.C.T. form home with any added notes—or leave it with your healthcare provider if they want to keep a copy (this is your choice).
Tips:
- You can use the A.C.T. for any type of primary care appointment—routine check-ups, new concerns, or follow-ups.
- You don’t need a diagnosis of autism to use it—anyone who feels it helps can use it.
- Keep a blank copy at home so it’s ready when you need it.
