Definition
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication.
Many people with autism also have sensory issues. These can include aversions to certain sights, sounds and other sensations. Autism’s hallmark signs usually appear by age 2 to 3. Autism affects an estimated 1 in 59 children.
Information Needed to Determine Eligibility
Social and behavioral information relevant to developmental history, a comprehensive and detailed diagnostic evaluation using state-of-the-art autism assessments, and medical and psychological records that pertain to a possible diagnosis is needed.
Types of Services and Supports Available
DDSN contracts with local Disabilities and Special Needs (DSN) Boards and other private providers to bring an array of services to your community. Services are provided based on the needs of the consumer, the appropriateness of the service to meet the need, and the availability of funding. Services may be limited by the availability of a service provider in your community.
Services Available Exclusively to People with Autism, Provided by the Autism Division:
- Consultation for families, educators, and service providers
- Evaluations for eligibility determination
- Training for professionals and families
- Treatment planning and planning for families
Additional Individual and Family Support and Services for Children and Adults through local Disabilities and Special Needs (DSN) Boards and other private providers:
- Service coordination
- Early intervention services
- Genetic evaluation, treatment, and counseling services
- Stipends for daycare (through ABC block grant) and transportation
- Individualized summer services and camps
- Adult companion services
- Adult dental services
- Adult vision services
- Audiology services
- Behavioral support services
- Environmental modifications
- Personal care services
- Nursing services
- Occupational therapy services
- Physical therapy services
- Prescribed drugs
- Private vehicle modifications
- Psychological services
- Respite care
- Specialized medical equipment, supplies, and assistive technology
- Rehabilitation support services
Day Services for Adults through local Disabilities and Special Needs (DSN) Boards and other private providers
- Supported employment services
- Center-based pre-vocational, habilitation, or rehabilitation support services
- Mobile work crews or enclaves
Residential Services through local Disabilities and Special Needs (DSN) Boards and other private providers
- A variety of residential settings which offer varying levels of supervision and support to meet the needs of each individual.
Services and support for people with autism may be funded through the Intellectual Disability/Related Disabilities (ID/RD) Waiver, Community Support (CS) Waiver, Medicaid State Plan, and/or Individual and Family Support Funding.
