The High Authority of Health (HAS) in France has announced updated guidelines for managing autism spectrum disorders (ASD), advocating for early developmental and behavioral interventions focused on communication, motor skills, and sensory experiences. This shift comes in light of the need to eliminate non-evidence-based treatments from mainstream practice. Étienne Pot, the inter-ministerial delegate for the national strategy on neurodevelopmental disorders, underscores the necessity of these changes to improve outcomes for individuals with autism.

In the new recommendations, methods such as psychoanalysis, neurofeedback, and packing are explicitly labeled as "non recommended." Pot elaborates on the ongoing efforts to dismantle outdated practices that lack scientific backing, emphasizing the ethical responsibility to prioritize treatments that are validated by research. He indicates that the persistence of harmful practices poses risks to those affected by autism and that a clear line must be drawn to ensure patient safety and effective treatment.

The implications of these revised recommendations are significant for both practitioners and families dealing with autism. By steering clear of ineffective therapies, the healthcare system in France aims to ensure that individuals on the autism spectrum receive the most suitable and evidence-based support, ultimately promoting better quality of life and outcomes. This initiative reflects broader trends in healthcare where evidence-based practices are paramount to guide treatment strategies and healthcare policies.