What is Autism?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. People with ASD often have no physical characteristics that sets them apart from other people, but they may communicate, interact, behave, and learn in different ways. The learning, thinking, and problem-solving abilities of people with ASD can range from gifted to severely challenged. Some people with ASD need a lot of help in their daily lives; others need less.

A diagnosis of ASD now includes several conditions that used to be diagnosed separately: autistic disorder, pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), and Asperger syndrome. These conditions are now collectively referred to as autism spectrum disorder.

(Source: Division of Consumer Protection)

Next Steps for ABA Services

What is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)?

Step 1: Go to your doctor and get a written order for ABA (applied behavioral analysis) services. Usually a developmental pediatrician, neurologist, psychologist will provide the prescription or referral for ABA services.

Step 2: Find a provider in your area such as Specialized ABA.

Step 3: The ABA provider will request necessary documentation from you such as the doctor's diagnosis, the prescription/referral for ABA by a physician, a psychiatrist's evaluation or diagnostic evaluation and your child's current IEP, insurance information and any other pertinent information that shows medical necessity.

Step 4: The ABA provider will send a request for ABA services to your insurance provider i.e. Medicaid or private insurance.

Step 5: Your insurance provider has professionals that will review the information your provider submits.

Step 6: You will get a letter in the mail letting you know the outcome.

For more information:

https://massairc.org/