Autism Awareness Month in South Carolina: Addressing Gaps in Care and Education
April is recognized as Autism Awareness Month, a time when communities across the United States come together to highlight the challenges faced by individuals on the autism spectrum. In South Carolina, the growing number of diagnoses has brought attention to critical issues in care, education, and access to essential resources.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 31 children in the United States is now diagnosed with autism. This represents a 16% increase compared to data from 2020, affecting thousands of families throughout the state. For many parents, the journey begins with a diagnosis that often comes without clear guidance or support.
Katelyn Safa, a mother of an 8-year-old son named Jonah, describes the experience as entering “a whole new world.” She recalls the lack of direction she received after her son’s diagnosis. “You go to the doctor, they just kind of give you a list and you have to learn it all yourself,” she said. This learning curve often involves navigating therapies, communication challenges, and a complex healthcare system — sometimes without clear direction.
Even when families understand what services they need, accessing them can be difficult. Safa highlighted the shortage of developmental pediatricians in her area. “I don’t even think we have any here. Specialists like eye, hearing — I have to drive two hours to MUSC,” she said.
Advocates with the Autism Society of South Carolina emphasize that these gaps are a growing concern, especially when it comes to receiving an initial diagnosis. Executive Director James Merklinger noted that in some cases, the wait time for a diagnosis was three years. While the state has made progress in recent years by nearly tripling the number of evaluators available, delays still persist. Other challenges remain, particularly within the school system.
Jill Powell, a parent mentor with the organization, points to several barriers that continue to affect students. These include limited funding, a lack of specialized training for teachers, and a shortage of paraeducators. She also highlights the importance of communication, especially for families with nonverbal children. “My child’s nonverbal. They can’t tell me what’s happening. I don’t think that many times schools realize that that piece is lacking and it’s up to them to fill that gap,” Powell said.
Lawmakers are now considering a potential solution through House Bill 3974. The bill would allow private autism therapy providers to work directly inside schools, giving students access to care without leaving the classroom. “It doesn’t make sense for students to leave school, go to therapy for a couple of hours a day if they can be integrated into the approach. What they learn can be immediately implemented in the classroom,” Merklinger said.
Advocates believe this kind of integration could improve both educational outcomes and inclusion — something many parents say is crucial. “These kids thrive more being integrated, and other children learn awareness and acceptance,” Safa said.
Despite the challenges, Safa says support from the Autism Society has made a meaningful difference for her family. She hopes increased awareness will lead to deeper understanding. “Even if you think it doesn’t pertain to you — it may someday. Awareness is important, but acceptance is everything,” she said.
The Autism Society of South Carolina continues working to connect families with services and help cover costs. Last year alone, the organization handled more than 7,000 calls for help and provides support to families in every county through its case management and parent mentor programs.
