MediHelpz Live w/Sandra L Washington

Each One Teach One: Supporting Neurodivergent Patients in Healthcare


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Dr. Samika Cosey joins Sandra L to unpack the often-overlooked healthcare experiences of neurodivergent patients – those whose brains process information differently due to conditions like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. Drawing from both personal and professional expertise, Dr. Cosey explains how healthcare systems frequently fail to accommodate these differences, leading to misdiagnosis, delayed care, and unnecessary suffering.

The conversation takes a powerful turn when Dr. Cosey reveals her own journey: as a child, she lost the ability to speak following a seizure. This transformative experience shaped her mission to ensure others receive the support she once needed, eventually leading her to found The Cozy Project – an organization providing critical resources to neurodivergent individuals and their families.

What emerges is a thoughtful exploration of advocacy's crucial role in healthcare. When doctors dismiss parents' concerns about their children's development or fail to understand neurodivergent needs, families must fight harder for appropriate care. This burden falls especially heavily on underserved communities, where information about available resources often fails to reach those who need it most.

Sandra and Dr. Cosey highlight how financial barriers create additional obstacles, with insurance limitations and program cuts making specialized services increasingly inaccessible – particularly for adults over 23, who face even greater challenges securing necessary support. Yet they offer hope through practical solutions, from navigating IEP processes to connecting with community resources nationwide.

At its heart, this episode embodies the "each one teach one, reach one" philosophy – reminding us that knowledge shared becomes power multiplied. Whether you're neurodivergent yourself, care for someone who is, or simply want to better understand diverse patient needs, this conversation offers invaluable insights into creating more inclusive, responsive healthcare experiences for all.

Connect with The Cozy Project at thecozyproject.com or 224-409-8811 to learn more about resources for neurodivergent individuals and their families.

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MediHelpz Live w/Sandra L WashingtonBy Sandra