Autism Bill Pushes For More Insurance Coverage

COLUMBUS, Ohio—Should health insurance plans pay for autism care? That’s the issue state lawmakers heard Wednesday from people on both sides of the issue.

House Bill 8 would require fully-insured health plans to pay for the medical care of autistic children from diagnosis and pharmacy care to therapeutic care and counseling services.

One in 150 children has autism, but not all insurance plans cover treatment.

“We pay out of pocket for things we need. We have Medicaid coverage as well, but it would be great if my husband’s employer pitched in as well,“ said Marla Root, a supporter.

The average cost of autism treatment each year is about $30,000.

Insurance companies take issue with the cost of treatment and consider some of it experimental.

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