Good News For Children With Disabilities

Gov. Jon S. Corzine signed into law new rules requiring insurers to cover the screening and therapeutic treatment of autism, making it the 15th state in the U.S. to require such coverage. Corzine signed the measure (A-2238/S-1651) into law requiring coverage for diagnostic and therapeutic services, including any medically necessary occupational, physical and speech therapy. Corzine said the state has made the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders “a top priority.” “[The new law] recognizes there must be appropriate resources to treat and care for individuals with autism, and provide their families the support they need,” the governor said in a statement. “By doing so, we enable those affected with autism to function as independent, productive, and empowered individuals and ease the burden of their loved ones.” Under the new law, insurance companies would be required to provide up to $36,000 annually for medically necessary behavioral early intervention for all patients under the age of 21 with autism and other developmental disabilities. AP

4 COMMENTS

Anonymous August 17, 2009 8:03 pm At 8:03 pm

Then you wonder why insurance costs so much.
Anonymous August 17, 2009 8:34 pm At 8:34 pm

The Governor makes himself look good, when all these services were available till now from the local school district. Basically he has made the insurance companies liable rather than the school district.
Anonymous August 17, 2009 9:40 pm At 9:40 pm

That's $36000 savings per autistic kid for the Lakewood School District. Wow!!! Millions saved.
Anonymous August 19, 2009 12:20 am At 12:20 am

all you guys should read the bill before commenting. it says clearly that this is only for "non educational" "out patiant therapy" . an autsitic childs therapy if done correctly can cost on average 100 – 110K per year . about 65- 75 K is definatly educational , this bill would cover the bulk of additional therapies.

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