Autism and Exercise Physiology Specialist Opinion

Job Description: We are seeking a qualified physician (Sports, Rehabilitation, or Exercise Medicine) to provide independent clinical guidance on Exercise Physiology supports in the context of Autism Spectrum Disorder (Level 2 support needs). This engagement is for general information only. It is not a medico-legal report, expert witness opinion, or evidence for submission in NDIS tribunal proceedings. Guidance provided will help inform my understanding and frame my own arguments appropriately. Scope of Work: The provider will: Review existing reports (medical, allied health, and functional assessments). Review the NDIA’s stated reasoning for limiting Exercise Physiology supports (provided below). Provide an independent, evidence-based perspective addressing: Whether Exercise Physiology can appropriately be used to address impairments associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (Level 2). Whether there is a clinically meaningful distinction between Exercise Physiology delivered for autism-related impairments versus general health and fitness purposes. Whether the current allocation of 12 hours per year is generally sufficient to address executive functioning impairments (e.g., planning, initiation, adherence, self-monitoring, maintenance of exercise routines). Circumstances in which ongoing Exercise Physiology involvement beyond an education-and-handover model might be clinically justified. Weaknesses, assumptions, evidentiary gaps, or alternative interpretations in either the NDIA’s reasoning or the material supporting the requested Exercise Physiology support. Additional evidence, assessment findings, or clinical reasoning that would assist in distinguishing Exercise Physiology required due to autism-related impairments from that primarily for general health and fitness. NDIA Reasoning Provided for Context: The participant currently has 12 hours per year of Exercise Physiology. The Agency acknowledges the evidence of Exercise Physiologist Tianah Talbot (T19). The Agency considers the 12 hours sufficient to address executive impairments arising from Autism and to provide education and strategies to maintain a gym or home-based program. The Agency considers that the level of Exercise Physiology requested beyond 12 hours is for general health and fitness purposes, not related to neurological or psychosocial impairments arising from Autism. The Agency notes that general health and fitness are not NDIS supports under s10 and s34(1)(f) of the NDIS Act. Requirements: Medical degree with specialization in: Sports Medicine, Rehabilitation Medicine, or Exercise Medicine Experience with neurodevelopmental or disability populations (e.g., Autism Spectrum Disorder) preferred. Familiarity with exercise therapy for functional impairments or participation goals. Ability to provide clear, independent, evidence-based guidance in writing. Deliverables: Written summary (1–3 pages or bullet points acceptable) addressing the questions above, including rationale and references where relevant. Optional brief clarification discussion if needed. Engagement Type: One-off advisory consultation Remote work; open to overseas providers Short-term engagement How to Apply: Please include: Your qualifications and specialty registration Relevant experience with neurodevelopmental or disability populations Examples of prior clinical guidance or assessment work (if available) A brief outline of your approach to reviewing reports and providing independent guidance

Project ID: 40501382