Bridging the Gap: The Honickman Center’s Neurodiverse Pavilion in Philadelphia: Improving Healthcare for Autism, ADHD, and Other Developmental Challenges
The Honickman Center specialty pavilion in Philadelphia is a model for neurodiverse care, developed by Jefferson Health in collaboration with physicians and designers. The aim of the center is to provide a space that accommodates the needs of neurodivergent individuals and improves their overall healthcare experience. This includes those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other developmental challenges, who make up an estimated 15-20% of the global population.
Neurodivergent individuals experience the world differently, but many buildings and spaces are not designed with their unique needs in mind. This can lead to frustration and difficulty in healthcare waiting rooms and offices, particularly for those with autism like Natasha Black. Black enjoys songwriting, fashion design, and braiding hair when she’s not working part-time at a ceramic studio. She is also open about being autistic and prefers to be referred to as such rather than just someone with autism. She was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at the age of 11 and has developed tools and strategies to help her navigate social interactions, recognizing that she can still feel overwhelmed and anxious in certain environments.
Jefferson Health’s collaboration with physicians and designers demonstrates a commitment towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all individuals, regardless of their neurodiversity. By acknowledging and addressing the diverse needs of the community, organizations like Jefferson Health are working towards a more inclusive future for all.
