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Concerning Health Insurance Benefits for the Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders - HIMAT (Health Insurance Mandated Autism Treatment (formerly known as Senate Bill 244 - 2009))  To download the final version of the bill, click here!

Law is effective July 1, 2010 - Directs health benefit plans to provide coverage for assessment, diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorder and defines what type of coverage is required for the treatment of ASD, including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).

On or after July 1, 2010, annual maximum benefit for applied behavior analysis includes:

• Birth through 8 years of age = $34,000
• 9 years of age through 18 years of age = $12,000
  
  

• “Autism Spectrum Disorders" includes the following neurobiological disorders: autistic disorder, Asperger's disorder, and atypical autism as a diagnosis within pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified, as defined in the most recent edition of the diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, at the time of the diagnosis.
• “Applied Behavior Analysis" means the use of behavior analytic methods and research findings to change socially important behaviors in meaningful ways.
• "Treatment Plan" means a plan developed for an individual by an autism services provider and prescribed by a licensed physician or a licensed psychologist, and developed in accordance with the patient-centered medical home.
• Defines who is a qualified provider, including, but is not limited to, speech, occupational, physical and specific qualifications for applied behavior analytic therapies.
• Specifies that treatments are not considered experimental or investigational and are considered appropriate, effective, or efficient for the treatment of autism.