What is our position on this bill?
We are in support of this bill because we believe it would relieve financial burdens for families who have children who are diagnosed with autism. By having private health insurance companies take on the responsibility of providing support to these children, it would save the government and taxpayers’ money. As of right now there is a waiting list to receive funding from the government, so it could be years until a family obtains any type of support from them. In the mean time, individual families who have a child with autism are paying out of pocket for medical bills and other special treatments. If private insurance companies decide to cover this condition under their policies, it would be cheaper for families because they would only be responsible for premiums and co-pays.
What is our action plan?
- Email and send letters to key stakeholders and state legislators.
- Provide information, references, and links about ethical concerns on the internet via our blog.
- Network with autism organizations and coalitions within the state.
- Support the autism organizations in Virginia and explore their resources.
According to a research study in the Official Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics, “Childhood autism is associated with a substantial loss of annual household income. This likely places a significant burden on families in the face of additional out-of-pocket expenditures.” This reiterates the need for private insurance companies to cover autism expenditures. In effort to make this happen it is important to carry out our action plan in a timely manner while the bill is still active.
Who are the key stakeholders?
- children with autism
- their families
- private insurance companies
- the government
- healthcare workers
Who are our Legislators?
Congressman Randy Forbes supported H.Res. 1106, a resolution expressing support for the designation of April 2008 as “National Autism Awareness Month.” It also expresses support for devoting new resources to research into the causes and treatment of autism. In addition, this resolution supports improving training and support for individuals with autism and their care-takers.
Congressman Bobby Scott is another advocate for health care improvements, which include research, preventative care, and supporting lower income families.
