Atlantic Health Morristown Medical Center has earned a significant distinction for its Gagnon Pediatric Emergency Department, which has been officially recognized as a Certified Autism Center™. This certification underscores the hospital’s commitment to providing specialized, inclusive care for children with autism while supporting families throughout the medical experience.
The Certified Autism Center™ designation is awarded to healthcare facilities that demonstrate extensive training and proven best practices in treating patients on the autism spectrum. Staff members at the Gagnon Pediatric Emergency Department have completed specialized education in understanding sensory sensitivities, communication challenges, and behavioral considerations unique to children with autism. The goal is to create an environment where pediatric patients feel safe, understood, and respected during what can often be stressful emergency situations.
Atlantic Health’s approach emphasizes family-centered care, recognizing that treating a child with autism effectively requires engagement with parents and caregivers. The team incorporates strategies to minimize anxiety, improve cooperation during procedures, and ensure that children receive timely, compassionate medical attention without the usual sensory or emotional overwhelm. By training staff across multiple disciplines—from nurses and physicians to administrative personnel—the hospital ensures a consistent and welcoming experience from entry to discharge.
This certification positions Morristown Medical Center as a leader in autism-friendly healthcare in New Jersey. It reflects broader efforts within the state’s medical community to improve access to care for neurodiverse populations, while fostering an environment that respects both patients and their families. Families visiting the Gagnon Pediatric Emergency Department can expect a combination of clinical excellence, empathy, and practical support tailored to the needs of children with autism.
Healthcare experts emphasize that such certifications are more than symbolic. By equipping emergency teams with autism-specific training, hospitals can reduce medical trauma, improve patient outcomes, and build trust with families who often face significant stress during emergency visits. Atlantic Health’s recognition also encourages other medical institutions to prioritize inclusivity and accessibility as standard practice rather than exception.
Patients and families seeking additional information about healthcare services, wellness programs, and innovative pediatric care across the state can explore our New Jersey health and wellness coverage for resources, expert insights, and updates on local healthcare developments. The Gagnon Pediatric Emergency Department’s certification represents a meaningful step forward in ensuring that all children, regardless of neurodiversity, receive high-quality, compassionate care when they need it most. Click here to visit the site.
