Topic Summary
Autism spectrum disorder is increasingly prevalent, yet frequently misunderstood in primary care settings. This module, led by Clinical Psychologist Prof Tony Attwood and Consultant Paediatrician A/Prof Daryl Efron, equips clinicians with the knowledge to identify, assess, and support autistic patients across the lifespan. Learners will explore diagnostic indicators, referral pathways, women’s presentations, anxiety, mental health comorbidities, dietary challenges, challenging behaviours, and evidence-based management strategies.
Learning Objectives
- Identify early clinical indicators of ASD in children, adolescents, and adults presenting in primary care, including sex-specific presentations in women.
- Describe the assessment process for ASD in general practice and determine appropriate referral pathways based on clinical presentation and complexity.
- Distinguish common comorbidities in autistic patients — including anxiety, mood disorders, and challenging behaviours — and outline evidence-informed management strategies.
- Apply knowledge of nutritional risks, sensory sensitivities, and pharmacological considerations to develop a patient-centred management plan for autistic individuals in primary care.
CPD and Accreditation
You must complete all the lessons in the module to earn CPD hours.
This activity is accredited with the RACGP and ACRRM for 3 hours in the Educational Activities (EA) category.
You can track your Healthed learning and download a CPD Statement as evidence of completion.
All learners will receive a Certificate of Completion, which may support self‑claimed PD with their professional bodies.
Disclosure Statement
This is an Amaze sponsored module. The content presented has been independently developed without intervention from Amaze.
The views and opinions expressed in the presentations are solely those of the presenter and should not be attributed to any organisation with which the presenter is employed or affiliated, and are not necessarily the views of Amaze.
This activity is proudly supported by an independent educational grant from Amaze. June 2026
