Strategies for helping children with Autism have a more comfortable Urgent Care Visit
Medically reviewed by Dr. Betsy Koickel, MD on April 1st 2025.
Medical appointments can be stressful for a sick or injured child. For children on the autism spectrum, that experience can be even more challenging.
Children on the spectrum may feel significant anxiety about seeing a new healthcare provider. Waiting too long for an appointment to begin can cause agitation and frustration for children who are already anxious. Children may have more difficulty than usual with communicating because they are frightened, as well as being sick or hurt.
Providers and parents alike want to help kids with autism feel better as quickly as possible while having patience with the needs of children on the autism spectrum. Here are some tips for a more comfortable urgent care visit.
Talk to the provider
Let the center staff know your child is on the spectrum when you make your appointment or check in. That way, we can do our best to meet your child’s needs. Let us know if there are things we can do, such as adjusting the lighting in the exam room or giving your child extra time to ask questions or share concerns during their appointment.
If your child would be happier waiting in the car with you rather than sitting in the waiting room, we can arrange to text you when we’re ready to take you and your child to an exam room.
Do paperwork in advance
Talk to the front desk staff about streamlining the check-in process. Call ahead to ask for digital copies of any forms you will need to fill out so you can do that in advance. Attach pertinent information, such as medications your child takes. Completing paperwork in advance will allow you to give your full attention to your child while you wait.
Bring comfort objects
Bring your child’s favorite items to help them relax at their appointment. They are welcome to wear noise-canceling headphones if they are sensitive to the sounds around them. In addition, you can bring objects like fidget items, books, stuffed animals, or a digital tablet.
Prepare with your child
As most parents know, giving kids with autism a clear idea of what to expect can relieve anxiety. Talk to your child before their appointment. You can use some of the tactics below to put their mind at ease:
- Many kids respond well to social stories that prepare them for an unfamiliar experience. These visual stories walk the reader through specific situations. They can be an excellent way to help kids on the autism spectrum know what to expect when they come in for a medical visit.
- Your child may also benefit from role-playing what the visit will be like. You can offer them the chance to undergo a make-believe appointment so they have a sense of what to expect.
- Make a schedule board or checklist of what will happen during the appointment. Bring it with you so your child can use it as a real-time reference of what to expect.
- Reward your child during and after the appointment. Offer praise and thank them for their cooperation after each segment of the visit. Once the appointment is finished, give your child a high-value reward such as a special meal, something related to a hobby or interest, such as trading cards or a book, or go to their favorite place.
Consider Virtual Visits
Some urgent care visits can happen virtually. If your child doesn’t need lab tests or X-rays, you may not need to go to an urgent care center. Talking to a provider from the comfort of home may be easier for kids on the autism spectrum. Virtual Urgent Care visits tend to be fairly quick, and your child can be in familiar surroundings the whole time.
Parents know best
We understand that you know your child best. We want to work with you to make their experience as quick and easy as possible. Let us know what we can do to help calm your child with autism during appointments so we can provide the quality care your child needs and deserves.
If your child needs same-day medical care, we are here to help. To get started, find the center nearest you. You can call ahead to discuss care for your child, save your spot online, or simply walk in. Our skilled, compassionate healthcare team is here to help.
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