Health insurance; modifying age limit for autism spectrum disorder treatment; modifying maximum benefit for coverage. Effective date.
The legislation not only expands treatment options for children but also emphasizes the importance of continuous coverage for individuals diagnosed with ASD. Under the proposed law, coverage is mandated for a minimum of six years following diagnosis, provided improvement is shown, which aims to ensure sustained access to necessary therapeutic services. This change is poised to enhance the overall treatment landscape for those affected by autism, significantly impacting their quality of care and outcomes.
Senate Bill 652, proposed by Senator Dossett, focuses on modifying health insurance policies related to the treatment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The bill specifically aims to raise the age limit for insurance coverage from individuals under nine years of age to those less than twelve. This change is significant as it expands the duration for which treatment can be covered, allowing for a longer period of care which is crucial for individuals who are diagnosed later. Additionally, the bill establishes provisions regarding the coverage maximums for applied behavior analysis (ABA), adjusting these limits to reflect current treatment needs and inflationary costs.
However, the amendments within SB652 may spark debates regarding insurance policy limits and the financial implications for insurance companies. The inclusion of limits and the stipulation that coverage for ABA will not revert to previous caps could raise concerns about the sustainability of such coverage under existing health plans. Additionally, critics might argue that the bill could lead insurers to restrict coverage in other areas to maintain profitability, leading to potential access issues for families seeking comprehensive care.