Nearly one in 50 American kids is affected by autism spectrum disorders, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Autism is a neurological disorder characterized by difficulty communicating and socializing, as well as repetitive behaviors.
Services and therapies can significantly improve the quality of life of those with autism, especially if they are provided at a young age. But many families face challenges in accessing and paying for effective treatment. Most insurance companies do not cover autism services, and there are a limited number of providers that offer effective treatments.
To help, we approved $3 million to establish a program that provides support to families that do not have insurance coverage for their children up to age nine. The Health & Human Services Budget (SF 446) also provides additional funding to the Regional Autism Support Programs, which coordinate autism services and ensure that all available resources are leveraged for the greatest benefit.
This new funding will help attract more health care professionals with expertise in autism therapies, thus enhancing the availability of quality services in Iowa.