1. Objectifs

Intentions :
This article aims «to identify policy processes supporting services for children with autism and possible gaps across existing policies, especially in view of the most recent plan.» (p. 487)

2. Méthode

Échantillon/Matériau :
The authors «conducted a comprehensive review of autism-related policies and guidelines issued by the government of Quebec between 2010 and 2018.» (p. 487)

Type de traitement des données :
Réflexion critique

3. Résumé

According to the analysis, «autism policies articulated at the provincial level in Québec are comprehensive, well grounded in international and national framework, and consistent with international human rights principles. The 2017 Action Plan marks an advance towards improving services for persons with autism. Policy documents also recognize existing barriers in the systems and propose some key directions to overcome them.» (p. 494) Moreover, several «existing services related to early identification and intervention of autism in Quebec were described across documents. The information on these services was generally targeted to care providers or to the families of children with autism. For the service providers, information included recommendations for care provisions, description of specialized training for professionals, and discussion of barriers to early identification and intervention for autism. Analysis of policy documents also revealed an intent to increase family awareness of resources and financial supports available to them, e.g., financial assistance programs for families living with a disabled person […]. Other policy documents provide parents with information about clinical services and resources […] and educational and support programs available to them […]. Some policies aim to improve safety and well-being of children with autism by providing information about their rights and relevant support services and programs, e.g., dealing with bullying […]. Other specific guidelines are intended to inform families about fair sharing of responsibilities in order to promote gender equality […].» (p. 487-488)