Last Updated on April 27, 2025 3:10 pm
BOONE — Multiple emergency services departments came together to learn more about how to
treat patients on the autism spectrum experiencing a medical emergency.
Whitney Sukonick, clinical director for the Autism Society of North Carolina, hosted the training
at Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute.
Watauga County Rescue Squad Chief Nate McCoy organized the training after the department
responded to a call that included a patient on the autism spectrum.
“Training EMS providers in Autism Awareness is essential—not just to improve patient care, but
to ensure that every individual, regardless of how they communicate or interact with the world, is
met with understanding, compassion, and competent care during their most vulnerable
moments,” McCoy said. “This training is not a topic we receive in-depth training on during our
initial education.”
The training focused on how everyone diagnosed with autism is different, how to make
someone on the spectrum feel more comfortable during an emergency, and state and national
data. Sukonick had first responders in attendance discuss past interactions with autistic patients
and answered questions on how best to help treat them when in an emergency.
“I took this class because I want to meet patients where they are,” McCoy said. “This ensures effective communication and a more patient-centered approach to care. Ensuring effective communication and shared decision-making with every patient, regardless of their ability, helps them feel more comfortable in the care environment. The more comfortable we can make them, the easier it is to provide appropriate care.”
Emergency service providers from fire departments, law enforcement and EMS attended the training.
“As first responders, I think it’s so important that we continue to learn about the community we
serve,” Cove Creek Volunteer Fire Department Chief Steve Marks said.
“And it seems that we are encountering patients with autism spectrum disorder more frequently, so attending a class on ASD is timely and beneficial. I’m confident that the training we received tonight will help us to offer more effective and compassionate care for our autistic patients, young and old alike.”
The Autism Society of North Carolina works to improve the lives of individuals with autism, supports their families, and educates communities. For more information, visit www.autismsociety-nc.org.
About Watauga County Rescue Squad
The Watauga County Emergency and Rescue Squad, Inc. proudly serves over 50,000 residents
within 313 square miles. WCRS is the backup ambulance service and the primary rescue
service (extrication, carry-outs, searches, specialized rescue) for Watauga County. Non-paid
volunteers maintain and staff a fleet of two ALS ambulances, two rescue trucks, one quick
response vehicle, one specialty rescue unit, and associated equipment. Together, the Watauga
Rescue Squad provides service 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year at no
charge to those served. Watauga Rescue Squad relies heavily upon donations from the
community and fundraisers for financial support. With community support, Watauga Rescue
Squad will continue to provide rescue and emergency medical services to the community free of
charge. WCRS was incorporated in 1961.
“Nate McCoy, standing left, introduces Whitney Sukonick at the training.”
