Implications for the Autism Treatment Acceleration Act

Any federal legistlation should address classroom
obstacles that affect autistic children

Throughout South Texas, whether it’s San Antonio, Corpus Christi, the Valley or any small town in between, parents of autistic children generally have limited resources at their disposal.  The autism phenomenon has struck many regions unprepared and South Texas has been no exception.  One recent piece of legislation has the potential to provide much needed services and leverage for families dealing with autism.  So far, however, it does seemingly leave at least one important issue unaddressed.

The Autism Treatment Acceleration Act was introduced recently as a way to provide community care centers, public education and a number of treatment options for families.  One key point of the bill provides a local point of contact and resources for families.  During the initial period following diagnosis, parents are often disoriented and left with little guidance as to what to do next.  A community care center would be able to answer the many questions parents have and guide them toward what to do next.  

Another key point in the bill would add requirements for health care providers.  Health insurers would be required to cover diagnosis, speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, medication as well as a host of additional treatments not currently required.  Additional provisions would provide adult autism services, public awareness campaigns and a voluntary registration.

Although the bill has only recently been introduced, one glaring omission from the act thus far is a lack of focus on public school requirements.  While it is desirable to have requirements for insurance companies to cover autism-related treatments, parents often have major challenges in acquiring adequate services from public schools.  The majority of time for many autistic children is spent at the school they attend.   

When such a piece of legislation is being considered that has national implications, public school reforms should certainly be an integral piece of the debate to really make a difference in the lives of autistic children and their families.  Legislators would be well advised to leave politics aside and be willing to take on ALL obstacles that impede development of children, no matter what powerful lobby or traditional party ally stands in the way.