SLBMC Medical Director Urges Action and Stronger National Support in Autism Care

Dr. Shivon Belle‑Jarvis, Medical Director of Sir Lester Bird Medical Center, says early checks and timely support remain vital for children with autism. Speaking on World Autism Awareness Day, she noted that autism affects communication, social connection and behavior, with signs often appearing between six and twelve months. She stressed that early identification leads to more effective help and opens more doors for inclusion.

“We still have not progressed as far as we want to in terms of inclusion,” explained Dr. Belle-Jarvis. “So yes we may know what autism is, but we are having challenges in terms of integration and inclusion from the society level. So this year’s theme is Autism and humanity – each life has value.”

Dr. Belle‑Jarvis addressed common misunderstandings, pointing out that many people on the spectrum can thrive in society and mainstream schools, though their levels of independence can vary. She urged families to act quickly when they notice warning signs, noting that a “wait and see” approach can slow progress.

“Although autism cannot be cured…we can optimize function, and how we optimize function is through early identification and through early intervention,” she stated.

She added that limited public knowledge and lack of awareness make it harder for people to receive support.

“I’ve been to church and I’ve seen a child spinning, flapping, fascinated by the bright lights and the flowers and everybody’s saying, “She can’t control she pikney,” and I’m saying, that child has autism,” recalled Dr. Belle-Jarvis. “If all of us are aware as to what to look out for, then I can pull mommy inside and say, “you know what, mom take a look.”

With long waits for private care and not enough public support, she called for stronger national action, including better school resources, trained staff and accessible therapies. She also encouraged parents and caregivers to spend more quality time with their children to better notice important signals.

“I must say we’re missing the mark because many of us are not spending enough time with our children, the tablet is, the TV is, the phone is. So we’re missing the cues,” Dr. Belle-Jarvis notes.

She shared details about upcoming national activities: a glow walk this evening at 7 PM at the Victory Center, a national blue-wearing day on April 24th, and a May 21st forum aimed at building a nationwide plan for inclusion.