July 28, 2010

State Representative Allen McCarthy yesterday joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in passing legislation requiring health insurance companies to cover the diagnosis of and treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorders.

“As a co-sponsor of this legislation, I am very excited to see it on the move,” said McCarthy. “Autism Spectrum Disorder affects 1 in every 110 children, including many of my constituents.  Over the past few months, I have heard from many parents and family members about the critical need for this bill.  I look forward to adding Massachusetts to the list of more than 20 states that have already passed similar legislation.”

An independent study done by the Commonwealth’s Division of Health Care Finance and Policy found that the anticipated increase for expanding coverage would be $1.84 per member per month.

Cost estimates indicate that, over the course of a person’s life, care relating to autism will cost approximately $3.2 million. This cumulative cost has been a financial burden not just on families, but also on the Commonwealth through Early Intervention services and other state-funded programs.

Autism affects 1.5 million Americans nationwide. In 2011, it is estimated that nearly 700 children in Massachusetts will be diagnosed with this disorder that impacts one’s ability to interact socially, communicate effectively, and sometimes can leave an individual physically impaired and completely incapable of speech.