Neurodivergent is a term recognizing that everyone’s brain develops in a unique way. People who know about the idea of being neurodivergent use that knowledge to adapt and help them succeed.
Different types of neurodivergent health conditions:
- Tourette Syndrome
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Down Syndrome
- Dyslexia
- Dyspraxia and many more…
Medical Terminology
| TERM | DEFINITION |
| Pulse Oximeter (O2) | Measures oxygen in blood and heart rate |
| Thermometer (F/C) | Measures body temperature |
| Blood Pressure (BP) | Force of blood against artery walls; indicates how hard the heart is working |
| HIPAA | US federal law protecting sensitive patient health information from disclosure without consent |
| Advance Directives (AD) | A written statement expressing how you want medical decisions made if you can’t make them yourself |
Why Healthcare Visits Can Be Stressful?
Communication barriers: Patients fear not being heard or missing important medical information, increasing stress and reducing trust.
Medical anxiety: Nervousness due to fear of diagnosis, past negative experiences, or lack of control.
Sensory overload: Bright lights, loud noises, crowded spaces, and constant activity.
Long waits: Feeling forgotten, anxious about results, or physically uncomfortable.
Things to Remember
Prepare for an Appointment
- Make a list of symptoms & concerns
- List medications/allergies
- Bring Documentation (insurance & ID)
- Pack sensory tools (headphones, fidgets)
- Plan transportation & timing
- Bring a friend
Reduce Stress Before a Visit
- Review what will happen step-by-step
- Use social stories or visuals
- Bring comfort items
- Practice deep breathing/grounding
- Prepare questions in advance
Patient Rights You Should Know
- Right to Respect, Dignity, and Non-Discrimination
- Right to Informed Consent (accept or deny care)
- Right to Clear Communication (Interpreter if needed)
- Privacy and Confidentiality
- Right to Accessibility (Accessible environment)
- Feedback, Concerns, and Grievances
Request Accommodations
- Quiet waiting area
- Longer appointment time
- Written instructions
- Breaks during exams
- Permission for comfort items
Improve Communication with Providers
- Ask providers to slow down
- Request written summaries
- Use devices if needed
- Bring an advocate/interpreter
- Ask for clarification anytime
Few Tips
What questions should you ask doctors?
- What is my diagnosis?
- What tests are needed?
- Treatment options?
- Medication side effects?
- How long will recovery take?
- When is follow‑up?
How can you self‑advocate during hospital visits?
- Speak up about discomfort
- Request sensory adjustments
- Ask for breaks
- Say when instructions are not clear
- Use written communication
What should happen after the visit?
- Review care instructions
- Fill prescriptions
- Schedule follow‑ups
- Monitor symptoms
- Contact provider with questions