ACCESS: A Nonintrusive Stress Detection System to Improve Healthcare for Individuals with ASD

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) poses considerable barriers to healthcare access, primarily due to heightened anxiety and sensory sensitivities. The ACCESS project proposes a multidisciplinary solution that leverages adaptive, non-invasive technologies and inclusive care protocols to address these challenges. Central to the approach is real-time stress detection through facial image analysis and chair-based ballistocardiography. Based on the identified stress levels, the system delivers personalized environmental adjustments to reduce anxiety and improve comfort. The ACCESS system supports both clinicians and patients by facilitating pre-visit familiarization and real-time anxiety management, contributing to more inclusive and adaptive healthcare experiences. This paper describes the ACCESS system, detailing its architecture, components, and initial implementation results.