Assemblyman Santabarbara, Chair of the New York State Assembly’s Sub-Committee on Autism Spectrum Disorders hosted his annual Autism Action Day virtually this year due to COVID-19.Autism Action Day brings together organizations, like Schenectady ARC and the Autism Society of the Greater Capital Region, self-advocates and family members from across the State in a united call for action on autism issues.

At the in-person event, usually held at the State Capitol, Santabarbara normally presents the New York State Autism Action Award to an individual or organization that has gone above and beyond to not only raise awareness but also take action to support individuals affected by autism and their families.

This year, Ellis Medicine has been named the 2021 recipient of the New York State Autism Action Award in recognition of the opening of a sensory-friendly emergency room that seeks to improve the medical diagnosis and treatment of individuals with Autism Spectrum and related disorders in hospitals and emergency rooms. It is the state’s first sensory friendly emergency room which provides for the sensory needs of patients with autism and their families. The treatment areas provide a quieter setting, dimmed lighting and a number of other sensory items that can make a significant difference in treating patients with autism.

NOTE: Due to COVID-19, the award normally presented at the State Capitol on Autism Action Day, will be unveiled at Ellis Medicine this year.

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