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Government Help With Autism

One in 110 children in the United States has autism, according to a 2010 report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). There are three specific types of Autism Spectrum Disorders: autistic disorder, Asperger syndrome and pervasive development disorder. Autism is four times more likely in boys than in girls, according to the CDC. Autism usually appears before the age of three and lasts a person's entire life, although symptoms may improve. A variety of government assistance is available to help families who have children with autism.

  1. Free Evaluation

    • You should contact your child's doctor immediately if you think your child may have an autism disorder. While you are waiting for your appointment, you can request a free evaluation from your local early intervention system or public school system. This evaluation is sometimes called a "Child Find Evaluation." The free evaluation determines if your child qualifies for intervention services. If your child is under three years old, contact your local early intervention system at your local health department. If your child is older than three, contact your local public school system. Even if your child is not in school yet, the school will have someone who can evaluate him. Diagnosing your child with autism as early as possible is very important. According to the CDC, research shows that early intervention (before the age of three) can improve your child's development. If you cannot find the correct agency to contact, call the National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities at 1-800-695-0285.

    Medicaid Waiver

    • Medicaid waivers are available in a number of states through the Social Security Act. Under a waiver program, states can choose to waive income when determining Medicaid eligibility. Originally, Medicaid money was only available for people who were placed in institutions. Now, the money is available for people with disabilities who remain at home. Contact the Development Disabilities Council or Health Care Financing Administration to find out if your state provides waivers for autism disorders.

    Insurance Reform

    • 21 states have passed insurance reform measures improving coverage for autistic services as of May 2010. States that pass the insurance reforms require health insurers to cover behavior therapy for autism. The amount of coverage varies by state, but is as great as $50,000 a year per child. Until reforms passed, many insurers did not cover any autism related services. Go to the Autism Speaks website to find out if your state is one of the ones that has passed insurance reforms.

    Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

    • Children with disabilities are eligible for low-cost or free services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or IDEA. This law outlines the necessary education requirements for children with disabilities. Some of the services available include medical evaluations, psychological services, counseling and training and physical therapy. Under IDEA, children under age 10 do not need a diagnosis to qualify for services. If they show any developmental delay, they are eligible for services. The Department of Education operates a website with a number of resources related to IDEA.

    Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee

    • The government continues its research into autism through the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee. The committee, operated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, includes both federal and public members. Through studies and surveys, the committee's goal is to improve autism services and research developments in the United States. Each year, under the Combating Autism Act of 2006, the committee must submit a strategic plan for Autism Spectrum Disorder research.

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