Washington, DC Autism News:
Autism Speaks, Washington, DC Councilmembers Tommy Wells And Muriel Bowser Announce Introduction Of Autism Insurance Reform Bill
Washington, DC (November 16, 2009) – Autism Speaks, the nation’s largest autism science and advocacy organization, and Washington, DC Councilmember Tommy Wells today joined Councilmember Muriel Bowser, families of children with autism, and autism care advocates to announce the introduction of legislation to reform health insurance for children with autism in the District.
Titled the “Health Insurance Coverage for Children with Autism Act of 2009,” the bill will create better access to care, better access to treatments and therapies, and create new requirements for insurance companies to provide expanded benefits up to $55,000 per year.
“The introduction of the autism insurance reform bill in the DC Council is another significant step forward in the national effort to secure autism insurance coverage across the country and provide families with the help they so desperately need and deserve,” said Stuart Spielman, Autism Speaks Senior Policy Advisor and Counsel. “We thank Councilmember Wells and Councilmember Bowser for having the courage to put families and their needs first.”... Read more
Summary of Washington, DC Autism Insurance Reform Bill:
Title: The “Health Insurance Coverage for Children with Autism Act of 2009”
Sponsored by Councilmember Tommy Wells (Ward 6) and Councilmember Muriel Bowser (Ward 4)
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Requires private health insurance companies to provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorder
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The bill includes coverage of professional, counseling, and guidance services and treatment programs and devices, including speech generating devices and applied behavior analysis (ABA)
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ABA is subject to a maximum benefit of $55,000 yearly
- The bill covers individuals with autism under the age of 21
- The bill applies only to fully-funded health plans governed by state law
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