LISTEN: During a recent discussion with GPB’s Pamela Kirkland, Georgia Tech's Jennifer Singh shares her research into the hurdles confronting specific demographic groups — particularly, lower-income Black families — in diagnosing autism and accessing care. 

GA Tech Expert Explores Autism Care Disparities in Georgia During Autism Acceptance Month
Credit: Georgia Tech

World Autism Acceptance Month is meant to bring greater attention to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and encourage acceptance and support for those with ASD, but recent research shows for some dealing with ASD in the metro-Atlanta area, accessing care can be difficult for some families. 

During a recent discussion with GPB’s Pamela Kirkland, Jennifer Singh shares her research into the hurdles confronting specific demographic groups — particularly, lower-income Black families — in diagnosing autism and accessing care. Singh, a sociologist at the Georgia Institute of Technology, emphasizes that her research, rooted in lived experiences, has provided invaluable insights.

"I have learned so much from families about the systems of care in Atlanta," Singh states. "Not from academic books, but by listening to their stories and grasping how we, as researchers, can pose more insightful questions and develop enhanced services."

Singh sheds light on significant disparities in accessing autism care in Georgia, especially for families that rely on public health insurance like Medicaid. She highlights the challenges encountered by lower-income and Black families, including limited support networks and economic constraints.

"Parents would tell me, 'I'd go to the support group, and I don't feel — I don't see myself. I don't hear my story,'" Singh said.

Her research culminated in the production of a documentary titled "Navigating Autism in Communities of Color," which delves into caregiver experiences in obtaining a diagnosis, accessing services, and advocating for their children.

"Part of the reason I do the research I do and created the documentary is to raise awareness that autism happens in all communities," she said. "It looks different, the experiences are different. And we need to recognize that in terms of raising awareness as well as acceptance." 

For more details about Singh's work on service disparities in the state, visit Georgia Tech’s website.

Tags: Georgia  Atlanta  Georgia  Autism  Autism Awareness Month  autism spectrum disorder