Mega Doctor News
AUSTIN – The Texas Health and Human Services Commission is observing Profound Autism Awareness Day on March 17 by providing information on supportive programs and services available to Texas families.
People with profound autism have moderate to severe intellectual disabilities and extreme difficulty communicating. They often need continuous, lifelong care.
“Establishing Profound Autism Day in the state of Texas marks a significant milestone in increasing awareness and expanding resources for families affected by profound autism,” said state Rep. Charles Cunningham of Humble. “According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately one-quarter of individuals on the autism spectrum meet the criteria for profound autism. I am deeply grateful that Texas is recognizing and uplifting this historically underserved population.”
House Bill 3096 was authored by Rep. Cunningham in the 89th Texas Legislature. The legislation designated March 17 as Profound Autism Awareness Day to express support for people with profound autism and to highlight available resources for those across the spectrum.
Autism spectrum disorder affects an estimated one in 31 children in the U.S., according to the CDC. Early diagnosis is critical to accessing early treatment and intervention services. Children who receive services at a young age have the best opportunity for reaching developmental milestones.
“HHSC works to improve the quality of life for children on the autism spectrum and their families through access to services and support,” said Haley Turner, deputy executive commissioner for HHSC Community Services. “For many families, receiving a diagnosis is an important first step toward understanding their child’s needs and connecting with resources that can help.”
The HHSC Children’s Autism Program provides focused applied behavior analysis services through local community agencies and organizations. The treatment is used to target specific challenging behaviors and maximize social or adaptive skills. The program is available to Texas residents ages 3 to 15 with a documented diagnosis on the autism spectrum.
People on the autism spectrum may also be eligible for long-term care through intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) services. Families can call their local IDD authority for guidance with the application process.
HHSC Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) is a statewide program for families with children who have developmental delays, disabilities or certain medical diagnoses, including autism, that may affect development. ECI supports families as they discover how to help their children grow and learn from birth to age 3.
ECI services include:
• Speech, occupational and physical therapy services.
• Behavior intervention.
• Nutrition services.
• Specialized skills training.
• Counseling.
• Service coordination.
Children with autism who are eligible for Medicaid can receive ECI, applied behavior analysis and other services. Find more information in the document below:
Information source: Texas Health and Human Services Commission
