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ASAN Resources on Coverage for Autism-Related Services
The Autistic Self Advocacy Network is in the process of developing a series of resources for autistic people, our families, providers, and health plans on coverage for autism-related services. These services can include developmental approaches regarding social communication, sensory integration, emotional regulation, and adaptive skills.
Until now, much advocacy for coverage of “autism interventions” has focused on purely behavioral approaches, like Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA). These interventions can be inappropriate or even harmful, and exclusive focus on coverage for behavioral interventions can result in limited access to evidence-based and emerging models that focus on improving relationships, communication skills, and development of skills that are meaningful to individuals’ quality of life. Our whitepaper on this topic entitled First-Hand Perspectives on Behavioral Interventions for Autistic People and People with other Developmental Disabilities, is available here.
Fortunately, laws governing health coverage permit access to a wide range of interventions. These laws vary by state and by source of coverage – for example, Medicaid or private health insurance.
Guide to Medicaid Coverage for Individuals
ASAN’s new guide to Medicaid coverage explains the evidence base for promising developmental interventions and provides instruction on how to advocate for coverage for these interventions. It is the [...]