Hannon: Landmark Autism Insurance Reform Approved

The New York State Senate approved legislation to enable individuals with autism spectrum disorders to receive insurance coverage for screening, diagnosis and treatment, according to Sen. Kemp Hannon.

The bill would save tens of thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses spent by families caring for individuals with autism and address insurance companies’ refusal to cover costs for autism treatments and therapies.

Autism spectrum disorders affect individuals of all ethnic, racial and socioeconomic groups. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that 1 in 110 children, including 1 in 70 boys, are currently affected with autism.

“This significant legislation is necessary to provide families dealing with autism the assistance they both need and deserve,” said Hannon, chairman of the Senate Health Committee. “These families should not be denied the proper services and quality of care for their loved ones merely because of an autism diagnosis.”

The legislation requires insurance companies to provide coverage for the screening, diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders, including behavioral health treatments, speech therapy, occupational therapy and physical therapy.

Insurance companies would be prohibited from terminating coverage or refusing to renew, adjust, amend, issue or execute a policy solely because the individual has been diagnosed with or received treatment for autism spectrum disorders.