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Resources > Professional Bodies and Institutions
Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH)
Professional standards for child health, including autism
Source: Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH)
The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) is the professional body for paediatricians in the UK and Ireland. Given that autism is often diagnosed in childhood, the RCPCH plays a pivotal role in setting standards and providing guidance for healthcare professionals working with autistic children and young people. They produce clinical guidelines, best practice frameworks, and educational resources for paediatricians on topics such as the early recognition of autism, the diagnostic pathway, and the management of co-occurring conditions. The RCPCH advocates for child-centred care, ensuring that the voices of children and their families are heard in the diagnostic and support process. Their work contributes significantly to improving the quality of paediatric care for autistic children, promoting early intervention, appropriate referrals to specialist services, and a holistic approach to managing their health and developmental needs throughout childhood and adolescence.
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