Have you or your child received an autism misdiagnosis? The implications can be serious, whether it’s being wrongly diagnosed with the condition or failing to obtain a diagnosis despite numerous consultations.<\/p>
The vital thing to know is that you have every right to make a compensation claim<\/a> and hold negligent specialists accountable. Using the online form<\/a> or calling 0800 234 6438<\/a><\/span> means you can get the ball rolling on your compensation claim.<\/p> A specialist legal advisor will evaluate your case and connect you with a solicitor.<\/p> Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition that affects people in numerous ways – depending on the severity and symptoms.<\/p> It’s important to remember that autism isn’t a disability or disease, but people with ASD are wired a little differently (hence the term neurodivergent).<\/p> As a spectrum condition, ASD manifests in various ways. While some people might have mild difficulties, others exhibit various behavioural symptoms.<\/p> Let’s take a look at them.<\/p><\/div> Some people with autism have problems understanding social cues and struggle to make eye contact, which is often misconstrued as rudeness. Due to their different communication methods, others might struggle to form relationships and make friends.<\/p><\/div> It’s common for individuals on the autism spectrum to face issues with communication, including not understanding tone of voice, conveying their feelings and understanding others. These symptoms can be mild and hardly noticeable, but severe cases might lead to mutism.<\/p><\/div> People with autism often prefer repetitive activities and routines instead of change. When unexpected changes happen, negative thinking patterns and behaviours can occur. Individuals with Level 3 autism might have meltdowns and outbursts of rage.<\/p><\/div> ASD also causes sensory issues, with many people reacting to light, smell, touch and noise. While some are hypersensitive, others might be undersensitive, leading to struggles with social interactions. When sensory overloads occur, they can have physical and mental reactions.<\/p><\/div> In the past, there were different types of autism, including classic autism, Asperger’s and pervasive developmental disorder. In 2013, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual changed to represent the fact that autism is a spectrum, outlining three different levels of severity:<\/p><\/div> This category of autism is the least severe. Individuals might experience minor communication difficulties, struggle with anxiety and need time when adapting to social situations. Other symptoms include repetitive behaviours and some mental health difficulties.<\/p> Level 1 autism diagnoses are similar to Asperger’s, as most individuals are high-functioning but might need some support.<\/p><\/div> Level 2 autism is more severe than Level 1, with individuals often needing support to communicate, socialise and manage daily activities. Many people also have restrictive interests, which can seem obsessive in nature.<\/p><\/div> As the most severe category of autism, Level 3 conditions often cause a range of communication difficulties, with some people not communicating verbally at all.<\/p> Individuals with Level 3 ASD might have adverse reactions to change and engage in limiting behaviours. Most will need ongoing educational and social support and help to perform daily activities.<\/p><\/div> There’s no set timeline for an autism assessment, as each region experiences various waiting times. In most cases, children receive priority over adults, resulting in earlier diagnoses.<\/p> Generally speaking, an ASD diagnosis takes between a few months and over a year, but some areas will be busier than others. Many people decide to get a private diagnosis, but paying for an assessment might not be an option.<\/p><\/div> Individuals with ASD typically experience a range of symptoms that affect social interactions, behaviour and communication. While specialists can identify autistic traits by assessing a person’s history and symptoms, misdiagnoses can occur.<\/p><\/div> While many young autistic children receive an early diagnosis today, there were many misunderstandings about autism in the past. Unfortunately, this means that adults are receiving new diagnoses frequently after years of challenges.<\/p> Research published by The Lancet<\/a> shows that children have a high rate of diagnosis in the UK, while adult rates remain low. Many children with ASD symptoms are identified at school, but educational institutions didn’t recognise autism as much in the 80s and 90s.<\/p><\/div> ASD shares traits with many mental health problems, which could lead to an incorrect diagnosis. While some specialists might diagnose autism when an individual has another disorder—or vice versa. The most common conditions that lead to confusion include:<\/p> Specialists should be able to refer to the diagnostic criteria and assess people based on their symptoms. So, if you receive an incorrect diagnosis, you could claim compensation.<\/p><\/div> There’s no recognised medical test for ASD, with specialists often relying on an individual’s history, behaviours, and symptoms. In the past, autism was regarded as a condition that primarily impacted males, leading to missed diagnoses in females.<\/p> Research shows that 1 in 100 boys and 1 in 500 girls<\/a> were diagnosed in the 1990s, highlighting serious misunderstandings about autism prevalence.<\/p> Autism appears differently in females, with many being able to mask the traits. Unfortunately, this means many women who don’t display stereotypical autistic characteristics might be misdiagnosed with a personality disorder or other conditions.<\/p><\/div> When healthcare professionals fail to make the correct diagnosis, it can lead to a range of effects, including physical, emotional, mental and struggles with daily life. They include:<\/p> If you’d like to make a compensation claim for an autism misdiagnosis, the first step is to determine your eligibility. Calling 0800 234 6438<\/a> or filling out the online form<\/a> gives you access to free legal advice.<\/p> If the specialist thinks you have a case, they’ll refer you to a no win no fee solicitor<\/a>, who will fight for compensation on your behalf.<\/p><\/div> Conditional fee compensation solicitors don’t charge hourly rates, which means there are no upfront legal costs. Instead, they’ll only receive a fee if your case is successful.<\/p> Many people prefer these claims, as there are no financial risks, and the solicitor only takes on the case if they feel there’s a strong chance of success.<\/p><\/div> The amount of compensation you receive depends on numerous factors, including the degree of negligence and the impact misdiagnosis has on your life. It’s also essential to remember that all compensation claims are based on two elements: general and special damages.<\/p> Because of the complexity of ASD misdiagnosis claims<\/a>, it’s nearly impossible to say how much you’ll receive until your solicitor evaluates the case. It also depends on the effects of your misdiagnosis, such as mental health issues and other medical conditions.<\/p><\/div> Evidence is vital for compensation claims, as it outlines medical negligence<\/a> and ensures the negligent party takes responsibility. Your no win no fee solicitor will gather evidence on your behalf, including:<\/p> Yes, parents can make a claim for a child under 18. These claims can be beneficial if your child needs extensive medical care or support with all aspects of daily life.<\/p> Claiming compensation on their behalf means giving your child the best possible support and ensuring their educational needs are met. Compensation can also benefit adolescents, as it enables them to receive counselling and ongoing support, making the transition to adulthood easier.<\/p> If you’re over 18 and can prove ASD negligence before this date, you’ll have up to three years to file a claim.<\/p><\/div> In most cases, you’ll have three years from the date of your diagnosis to make a compensation claim. There are some exceptions, including for children who claim after turning 18 and individuals with limited mental capacity.<\/p> It’s best to make a claim as soon as possible, as this gives your solicitor enough time to gather evidence and present your case to the negligent party. While some claims are relatively quick to settle, others might take more time for the following reasons:<\/p> Filing your claim early means you’ll have plenty of time to receive the settlement you deserve.<\/p><\/div>What is autism?<\/h2><\/a>
Social Challenges<\/h3><\/a>
Communication issues<\/h3><\/a>
Behavioural symptoms<\/h3><\/a>
Sensory issues<\/h3><\/a>
The types of autism spectrum disorder (ASD)<\/h2><\/a>
Level 1: Requiring support<\/h3><\/a>
Level 2: Requiring substantial support<\/h3><\/a>
Level 3: Requiring very substantial support<\/h3><\/a>
How long does it take to get an autism diagnosis?<\/h2><\/a>
How can autism be misdiagnosed?<\/h2><\/a>
Delayed diagnosis<\/h3><\/a>
Overshadowing from other disorders<\/h3><\/a>
Gender differences<\/h3><\/a>
Injuries and difficulties associated with misdiagnosed autism<\/h2><\/a>
How can I claim compensation for autism misdiagnosis?<\/h2><\/a>
Can I make a no win no fee autism misdiagnosis compensation claim?<\/h3><\/a>
How much compensation can I claim for autism misdiagnosis?<\/h2><\/a>
What evidence do I need for an autism misdiagnosis claim?<\/h2><\/a>
Can I claim on behalf of my child?<\/h2><\/a>
Is there a time limit on making an autism misdiagnosis claim?<\/h2><\/a>