Autism Speaks Blog addresses the Federal Health Reform Law and effects on autism coverage of treatment and ABA

The Autism Speaks blog has put up a post in which they identify what is seen as the outcome from the passage of S. 3590 and the potential passage of H.R. 4872.

Health Care Reform: What does it mean for the Autism community?

While the post is posed in general terms, there are comments related to those plans under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) not being required to provide the essential benefits package requiring "behavioral health", and what they see as benefits and effects on state mandates.

• Will health care reform directly benefit the autism community?
• Does it apply to all insurers?
• How does health care reform impact the state autism insurance reform effort?

The short version is that passage of the Federal health care reform, while projected as a positive outcome for the country as a whole, is not a universal solution to the coverage and reimbursement problems currently facing families with a child who has an autism diagnosis, and that Autism Speaks' assessment is that obtaining uniform coverage providing behavior analytic treatment for those with an autism diagnosis will require continuing advocacy and legislation at both Federal and State levels. That blog also welcomes comments and questions.

Related posts
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Federal legislation: U.S. House passes Senate health care reform bill to be signed into law; reconciliation act goes to the Senate

Tuesday, December 22, 2009
FYI: Self-funded Health Insurance Plans and ERISA

© 2010 Regina G. Claypool-Frey
Disclaimer: This blog publishes news and announcements only as a service to interested persons, the posts are the responsibility of the individual author, and unless otherwise noted do not constitute nor claim to represent the official position of ABA International, its officers or associated entities. This blog makes no representation as to the accuracy of the report and readers are strongly encouraged to consult and reference the primary sources noted.