Missouri’s biggest hospital system expands autism services

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KY3) – Thousands of Missouri families are dealing with the day-to-day challenges of Autism, and now Missouri’s biggest hospital system is expanding its resources for autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders.

MU Health’s new Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment is slated to open in early 2026. Friday, the final beam was placed on top of the building, marking progress toward the construction of the new building in Columbia, Missouri.

In the past decade, the Thompson Center has served 109 Missouri counties and nine other states, and with this new center, they’re hoping to serve even more families. This expansion doubles the size of the center.

The Centers for Disease Control says up to one in 36 Missouri children show signs of autism. Children like Angela Keller’s 3-year-old daughter Renesemee. Keller knew even before her daughter was born that she would have multiple disabilities, but Renesemee receives all the care she requires at the Thompson Center.

“When you’re a new special needs parent, a lot of times you don’t know where to go,” Keller said. “Thompson Center is a good jumping point.”

Since 2000, the number of autism diagnoses has increased 60%. Thompson Center Executive Director Connie Brooks credits that increase to the strides in identifying autism and the increased acceptance of neurodiversity.

“Parents and providers are tuned in at an earlier age, and so they’re bringing them in to get that checked out,” Brooks said.

Through the center, families can receive comprehensive care, seeing all the doctors their child or loved one needs in one place.

“Autism affects people in really individualized ways, because it is such a spectrum,” Brooks said.

But most importantly, Keller and Brooks hope the center cuts down on wait times and allows more families to find the care they need.

“I was able to get a jumpstart on finding those resources and knowing what I needed to ask for before I left the hospital,” Keller said. “Some parents haven’t been so lucky.”

Anyone seeking care for Autism or other developmental challenges can find resources on the Missouri Department of Mental Health’s website.

To report a correction or typo, please email digitalnews@ky3.com. Please include the article info in the subject line of the email.

Copyright 2024 KY3. All rights reserved.