Positive Development’s Post

The Autism Community Needs Our Help Indiana Medicaid has released proposed insurance rates that will take effect in 2024. The proposal does NOT reflect a rate necessary for Applied Behavior Analysis therapy (ABA). The estimated 1.6 million children in Indiana diagnosed with Autism will be left without realistic access to evidence-based treatment. If legislators move forward with said rates the impact will be detrimental. Several things are projected to occur, however, here are the substantial highlights: -ABA service budgets will be cut by HALF -The waiting list for clinical ABA settings will become even longer -ABA centers will be forced to close their doors -10,000+ Hoosiers are at risk of losing their jobs -Children with ASD will be forced into schools unequip to handle the complexity of their needs -Many households will be forced down to one income, this is if their child can be approved for home-based ABA OR their child is expelled from school (often due to continued aggressions) -Private insurance companies will likely follow the lead of Medicaid as they have set the expectations thus far Indiana was the first state in the nation to recognize the importance of ABA therapy. The long-term effects of this major setback could be devastating, not only to Hoosiers but our entire country. It is imperative that families, friends, and professionals rally together against the Indiana Medicaid proposed rates. How To Help: -Sign-up to volunteer with Indiana ACT for Families https://lnkd.in/gDZbAyei -Email and/or call legislators https://lnkd.in/gBRq4VqT -Comment below or message me with ABA success stories (family or therapist perspective) and what the impact of losing services would mean for your child/family. I will keep these anonymous but share them for the cause.

This is why I believe EVERYONE should celebrate extraordinary talents! 🌟 Yesterday, we observed World Autism Awareness Day, a day dedicated to understanding and supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorder. In India, it's estimated that over 10 million people are on the autism spectrum, and globally, 1 in 160 children has autism. It's important to understand that Autism is not a disability; it's a different ability that enriches our world in unique ways. 🌍 Did you know that some of history's greatest minds, like Albert Einstein struggled with social interaction and speech and demonstrated various behaviors characteristic of autism throughout his life, and we know his extraordinary talent and exemplary contribution to the world. We were having a discussion in one of our professional group about the state of insurance availability to people with ASD and it was observed that insurers in India have been hesitant to underwrite the risk for people with autism. However, now due to continuous pressure from the public and regulators, insurance companies have started offering specialized policies that cover autism. These specialized policies are a step in the right direction, ensuring that individuals with autism have access to the insurance coverage they need. Let's pledge to educate ourselves, promote acceptance, and advocate for the rights of individuals with autism every single day! [Pic courtesy : Unsplash] #WorldAutismAwarenessDay #AutismAcceptance #InclusionMatters #success #love

On World Autism Day, let's emphasize the importance of early recognition of autism. Join us in sharing this video to illuminate the path towards early identification and support for individuals with autism. A heartfelt thank you to Professor Pabasari Ginige for her invaluable contributions. #UnionAssurance #YourLifeOurStrength #Insurance #LeadingLifeInsurer #FinancialPlanning #SriLanka #Financial #autism #worldautismday

On this World Autism Awareness Day, it's essential to highlight the significance of insurance coverage for autistic children, particularly in light of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. With the incidence of autism reportedly increasing post-COVID, ensuring access to comprehensive insurance coverage is more critical than ever.Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) presents unique challenges for individuals and their families, ranging from social difficulties to communication barriers. Access to specialized treatments and therapies is fundamental to supporting the development and well-being of children with autism. The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted many aspects of life, including access to essential healthcare services. For families of children with autism, this disruption can exacerbate existing challenges. However, with proper insurance coverage, families can navigate these uncertain times with greater ease, knowing that their child's needs are supported.Fortunately, 2-3 insurance companies recognize the importance of providing coverage for autism treatment. By offering tailored plans that include coverage for therapies and interventions specific to ASD, these companies play a crucial role in ensuring that families can afford the care their children require. As we observe World Autism Awareness Day, let's reaffirm our commitment to advocating for inclusivity and support for individuals with autism. By promoting access to insurance coverage for autism treatment, we can help ensure that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential. #WorldAutismAwarenessDay #AutismAwareness #InsuranceForAutisticKids #ASD #COVID19Impact #HealthcareCoverage #InclusiveInsurance #SupportingFamilies #TherapyCoverage

This is something I've been struggling with for a while now. The way the law is written, Autistic children in Florida age out of Medicaid at 5 and the private market typically does not cover ABA (or it's crazy expensive), which is an incredibly effective treatment. The problem is you really don't get signs of autism until age 2, and then it takes about a year to get the diagnosis you really need to even be approved by Medicaid to get ABA, which puts the kid at age 3, then you're wait-listed on a program and are lucky to get your kid into ABA therapy at age 4. So by the time you're all set up you have about a year of therapy until the rug is yanked out from underneath you and you now have to pay for therapy for a disabled child. This therapy costs about $75-$150 an hour and many kids need it at least 30 hours a week. That's $2,250 to $4,500 a week you're expected to come up with out of pocket to give your disabled child the therapy they need. I've been blessed by good business years, but it hasn't mattered much to our budget because of how much money it costs for therapy that was taken from us simply because our child turned 5. I count our son as one of the lucky ones because we can still afford to do this. They would never allow this to happen to children with a disability. Can you imagine a government agency taking away a wheelchair from a child at 5, just because they turned 5? That's what's happening to autistic kids. It is a disability that is being segregated and harmed with no real reason.

Thoughts on how to improve healthcare visits for individuals with autism. The article is summarized on aSuggestion. <If you're willing, please Like/Share> www.aSuggestion.com #employeeengagement #humanresources #HR #feedback #work #working #employees #employers #wellnessandcare #mentalhealth #behavioralhealth #disabilities #autism #IDD #aSuggestion #LifeImproved

For individuals with autism spectrum disorder, getting a driver’s license can be an important milestone and provide independence, opening up new opportunities. However, it can also present unique challenges and considerations. In honor of #AutismAwarenessMonth, we are sharing our blog post about driving with autism: https://lnkd.in/gUi2BrW9

Dr Nancy Sadka and Associate Professor Josephine Barbaro, from La Trobe’s Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, have co-authored a Conversation article that examines the role of diagnosis for accessing National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) support for autism. “Ahead of the release of the government’s review into the NDIS, the topic taking centre stage is the diagnosis of autism. Over one-third of people accessing the scheme list it as a primary disability.” “Research is telling us that we are getting better at identifying children with more subtle autistic traits at earlier ages and making more accurate diagnoses of autism because of increased knowledge and awareness.” This has led to an increase in people with autism accessing the NDIS, however, the level of funding provided is determined by ‘severity levels’ outlined by the diagnostic manual. “NDIS access and funding should not be based on diagnostic levels; it must be based on individual needs," they write. "To make the fundamental shift Bill Shorten and the NDIS review co-chairs are foreshadowing, access to the NDIS should not be deficits based.” Read more: https://bit.ly/47NB70V #LaTrobePsychologyAndPublicHealth #Conversation #Autism #OTARC

https://lnkd.in/guHVbyAa Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects individuals across their entire lifespan. It is characterized by difficulties in social interaction, communication, and restricted and repetitive behaviors. Autism affects people of all ages, from young children to adults, and poses unique challenges to individuals and their families. In this article, we will delve into the challenges faced by people with autism across various age groups, explore the early symptoms of autism, discuss strategies to provide support, and shed light on the role of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in assisting individuals with autism.

Pets May Help Improve Social Skills of Children with Autism As an attorney with a focus on Estate Planning I have assisted several families with creating a plan for children with developmental disabilities, including Autism. I am also a strong advocate for pets. This article supports the bond between children and their pets. If you are considering a pet for your family, please conduct the proper research to find the right pet for your situation. Many local shelters have staff that can help with the choice. You could save a life and enhance the life of your child at the same time. https://lnkd.in/gJwKBEJx #parenting #estateplanning #specialneedsparenting