Saint Peter’s University Hospital – The Dorothy B. Hersh Pediatric Emergency Department
New Brunswick, New Jersey
Saint Peter’s University Hospital – The Dorothy B. Hersh Pediatric Emergency Department
Navigating the health care system can be overwhelming for those on the autism spectrum. In response, the Dorothy B. Hersh Pediatric Emergency Department at Saint Peter’s University Hospital launched a new initiative to become a nationally recognized Certified Autism Center—a designation that highlights its commitment to delivering compassionate, inclusive and
specialized care for children with autism and sensory sensitivities.
specialized care for children with autism and sensory sensitivities.
This certification process includes comprehensive staff training focused on understanding the unique communication styles, sensory preferences and behavioral cues common among children with ASD. By equipping the team with these critical skills, staff members are better able to help ease patient anxiety, enhance communication and create a more positive and therapeutic experience for every child who walks through the emergency department doors.
The 15-bed Hersh Pediatric ED’s goal is to make pediatric emergency care more accessible, less intimidating and truly patient-centered for children with autism and their families. Achieving this certification reflects the department’s continued dedication to high-quality care that recognizes and respects the diverse needs of pediatric patients—especially in moments of urgency and vulnerability.