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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 9, 2008
CONTACT:
Carol Maravic
717-787-6725
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Landmark Legislation Providing for Autism Insurance Coverage

Senator Jane Orie (R-Allegheny) joined Governor Rendell today at the Vista School in Hershey for the signing into law of landmark and national model legislation that will require Pennsylvania insurance companies, for the first time, to cover treatment for a wide spectrum of autism disorders.  It will be one of the strongest insurance mandates for autism yet achieved in the nation.

Orie said the legislation provides $36,000 a year for Applied Behavior Analysis and other medically necessary treatments up to age 21, with no lifetime cap. It also creates an expedited appeals procedure for denied claims for autism services, as a safeguard to ensure the law is followed.

"Autism is one of the most serious developmental disorders in the country today and is more prevalent than pediatric AIDS, diabetes, and cancer combined.  According to recent studies, there is a 1 in 150 occurrence of autism in children and that number is steadily growing each year," Orie said. "Because of these high numbers and of the importance of early diagnosis, it is essential that something be done to help families deal with the high costs of treatments."

House Bill 1150 amends the PA insurance company law to reach out and help families by providing insurance for autism spectrum disorders.  Insurance companies would be required to cover diagnosis, treatments and other quality health care procedures.

"This bill will end discrimination for individuals with autism, and provides them the same medical necessity standards provided to those with cancer, diabetes, and other illnesses," Orie said.  "Individuals with autism deserve the same quality of care that all those with chronic and severe health conditions receive."

Orie commended Senators Don White and Michael Stack, Chairmen of the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee, House Speaker Denny O'Brien (prime sponsor of House Bill 1150), and autism advocacy groups, including Autism Speaks and individuals from the Vista School, for their efforts to pass the legislation – saying Pennsylvania will be a national leader in the fight to help those with autism and this is a tremendous milestone.

"Less we forget why we are here today – children with Autism and the recognition that we must do more to assist them and their families."