Autism Spectrum Disorder and the Role of Family Medicine in Qatar

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong developmental condition that affects social and communication abilities. In Qatar, family physicians play a critical role in identifying and managing ASD, and they perform autism screening during child vaccination appointments that provide a key opportunity for early detection and intervention. However, there are various challenges, including the high volume of patients that may limit the time given for the assessment, as well as strong social stigma that creates a barrier to diagnosis. This paper explores the role of family physicians in autism care and the challenges faced, highlighting the importance of raising public awareness and taking a culturally sensitive approach.