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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
State Rep. John Yudichak
D-Luzerne
Bill reforming autism health care signed into law
HARRISBURG, July 9 – State Rep. John Yudichak, D-Luzerne, announced that a bill (H.B. 1150) requiring health insurance companies to provide coverage for diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorder was signed into law by Gov. Rendell today.
Yudichak said H.B. 1150 was introduced by House Speaker Dennis O'Brien and received bipartisan support in the House. It requires insurance companies to cover up to $36,000 of autism-related treatment for people under 21 years of age.
"It is very important for families dealing with autism to be able to receive quality health care," Yudichak said. "A strong continuum of care is what will allow these children to reach their full potential."
Coverage under the new law includes medically necessary diagnostic assessments; evaluations or tests; psychiatric and psychological care; rehabilitative care; therapeutic care to include speech, occupational or physical therapy services; and prescription drugs.
Yudichak said local autism organizations in Luzerne County should be applauded for their involvement in advocating for the bill and for their many years of service to families dealing with autism.
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