Argentina formalizes National Autism Spectrum Disorder Plan

Argentina's Ministry of Health has formalized the National Plan for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through Resolution 1115/2026. Managed by the National Directorate for Integral Mental Health Approach, the strategy aims to standardize protocols for early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation across the country.

The plan is organized into six key pillars: promotion and prevention, human resources training, support for families, research and innovation, intersectoral coordination, and epidemiological diagnosis. It emphasizes the use of screening tools in primary care to identify early warning signs in children.

While the initiative seeks to improve the quality of care and continuity of treatment, it has faced criticism regarding its implementation. Specifically, the resolution states that the plan will not require additional budgetary allocations, relying instead on the reorganization of existing resources. Experts have expressed concerns that without specific funding or clearly defined provincial targets, the plan may struggle to achieve its objectives in a context of existing budget constraints.