BETWEEN ADVANCES AND INEQUALITIES: AN OVERVIEW OF PUBLIC POLICIES FOR PEOPLE WITH ASD

Abstract

This chapter presents an analysis of Brazilian public policies directed toward individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), highlighting legal advancements and the organization of the national care network. The objective was to identify the main regulatory milestones, the structure of care provided, and the challenges to ensuring the effective implementation of guaranteed rights. The methodology followed a scoping review based on the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI), using the PCC strategy and consulting databases such as Scielo, PubMed, Lilacs, and Google Scholar, in addition to official documents and legislation. The results show that Law No. 12.764/2012 and the Brazilian Inclusion Act represent fundamental legal pillars, recognizing autistic individuals as people with disabilities and ensuring rights related to health, education, and social inclusion. The discussion indicates that, although there have been advances in the Psychosocial Care Network (RAPS) and in local initiatives such as the Multidisciplinary Care Center (CMAM), challenges remain, including regional inequalities, a lack of trained professionals, and institutional barriers. It is concluded that consolidating comprehensive and humanized care requires the continuous strengthening of public policies, expansion of access, enhancement of multidisciplinary teams, and active family participation, in order to guarantee inclusion, autonomy, and improved quality of life for individuals with ASD throughout Brazil.