For example, one individual was ineligible for insurance coverage for an appendectomy because autism was considered a pre-existing condition. In other words, even though a physical illness is completely unrelated to autism or its behavioral manifestations, sometimes individuals with autism are denied coverage. This policy is based on a very distorted understanding of what autism spectrum disorders are and how they affect a person s physical health. When faced with the high costs of medical care, therapies, medications, and other treatment approaches and interventions, many find themselves mortgaging their homes to ensure that their child has the best possible care. The financial and emotional toll on the entire family is enormous.
Families then turn to other state and local agencies for financial support.
These resources are scarce, and in some states non-existent. Families are told that they have a window of opportunity in which to intervene with their child. When resources and services are not available during this critical time period, families are willing to risk financial devastation. The end result is tremendous stress on their marriages, and intense levels of personal stress in coping with their child s autism. And again, this impact is felt by the entire family, including siblings and grandparents.