CAST Program Eases Primary Care Transition for Autistic Patients

The Center for Autism Services and Transitions offers specialized care to help autistic individuals feel comfortable and supported in a medical setting.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 12:08am

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A ghostly, translucent X-ray image revealing the complex neural structures of a human brain, conceptually representing the unique needs of autistic individuals in the healthcare system.An X-ray view into the intricate neurology of the autistic brain, highlighting the need for specialized, empathetic healthcare services.Grandview Today

The Center for Autism Services and Transitions (CAST) program, located in four Wexner Medical Center branch offices in Ohio, provides primary care, psychotherapy, and other services tailored to the needs of autistic patients between the ages of 18 and 35. The program aims to make healthcare more accessible and less stressful for this community by offering sensory-friendly environments, flexible therapy approaches, and providers who are passionate about working with autistic individuals.

Why it matters

Navigating the healthcare system can be particularly challenging for autistic individuals, who may experience sensory overwhelm or difficulty communicating their needs in a traditional medical setting. The CAST program addresses these barriers by creating a welcoming environment and providing specialized care to support autistic patients throughout their healthcare journey.

The details

The CAST program offers a range of services, including primary care with licensed physicians, psychotherapy, social work, and in-office procedures. The clinics are equipped with sensory-friendly tools like fidgets, noise-cancelling headphones, and adjustable lighting to help patients feel more comfortable. Therapists also take a flexible approach, allowing patients to choose the environment and level of eye contact they prefer. The program's providers are specifically trained and passionate about working with the autistic community.

  • The CAST program was established in 2026 and is currently operating in four Wexner Medical Center branch offices in Ohio.
  • Patients must be between the ages of 18 and 35 at the time of enrollment, but can receive care for as long as they choose.

The players

Jessica Schiering

The community outreach liaison for the CAST program.

Rachael Menssen

A psychotherapist and social worker who provides services through the CAST program.

Wexner Medical Center

The healthcare system that houses the CAST program, with four branch offices in Grandview, Hilliard, Lewis Center, and New Albany, Ohio.

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What they’re saying

“'With community outreach, [we] hear directly from those who are impacted and live the day-to-day life of having either themselves or a loved one with autism and navigating the healthcare system. [The] goal is to make primary care more accessible and in a friendly environment, to help make it a little less scary and have providers and staff be more open and understanding.'”

— Jessica Schiering, Community Outreach Liaison, CAST Program

“'I have an open space set up with a comfy chair and a big basket full of fidgets to make people comfortable. I have the ability to dim the lights, or I can sit in a different spot if we need to move things around, because eye contact is uncomfortable. Really, just asking somebody what they need, and meeting them where they are.'”

— Rachael Menssen, Psychotherapist and Social Worker, CAST Program

“'We're here to support, we're here to help support and navigate needs, and help give the tools to navigate health care in general. Even as someone who works in health care, it can be difficult navigating healthcare systems, so we do our best to help ease that burden and transition.'”

— Jessica Schiering, Community Outreach Liaison, CAST Program

What’s next

The CAST program plans to continue expanding its services and reach within the Wexner Medical Center network to provide more autistic individuals with access to specialized, supportive primary care.

The takeaway

The CAST program demonstrates the importance of creating healthcare environments and services that are tailored to the unique needs of the autistic community, helping to make the often-daunting process of seeking medical care more accessible and comfortable.