If you have a child who’s been diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder, then you may have heard of the Autism Cares Act. However, if you’re like many people new to the autism scene, you may be wondering — what is the autism cares act and how does it affect me? Understanding more about this legislation can help you find the right autism care in Westchester, NY, or an area near you. In this post, we’ll try to cover both of those issues for you, so you can be aware of the services available for you and your child.
What Is The Autism Cares Act?
The Autism Cares Act was originally termed the Combatting Autism Act, and it was first introduced in 2006. The purpose of the law was to provide a federal response to the rising number of children receiving an autism diagnosis.
In 2014, the law was renamed the Autism Collaboration, Accountability, Research, Education, and Support (CARES). In 2019, congress reauthorized it until 2024.
So, what is the Autism Cares Act? It is a federal law that appropriates funds to autism research, services, and training. Furthermore, it keeps the autism spectrum disorder on the forefront of doctors’ and teachers’ minds. The funds allocated to the Cares Act allow researchers to determine what therapies are most effective in treating children with autism. It also provides funds to study the causes, symptoms, and challenges of autism.
The main entities providing research for the federal government about autism include:
- The National Institute of Health (NIH)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)
There are also several other programs across the country that receive support for autism services. Also, the Autism Cares Act assists in the training of leaders and administrators of autism services.
Autism Treatment for Your Child
Thanks to the funding and research provided by the Autism Cares Act, you can take advantage of programs and therapies that have been carefully researched. These evidence-based programs like those offered at EMIT therapeutics have been examined by experts in the field. Your child will benefit from entering an autism spectrum disorder treatment center early in life. It will help them with social skills development, enhanced communication, and behavioral issues. Some of the treatment therapies you can expect include:
- Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech and communication therapy
- Social skills therapy
- Cognitive training therapy
Your child will advance with these proven therapy methods and be better prepared for the future. In addition, parents often find the treatment relevant to them, as well. It will give them guidance on how to deal with situations that arise at home.
Get Started With Treatment Today
You and your child can begin the journey for the future by participating in autism spectrum disorder treatment programs.
Surrounded by compassionate therapists, your child will excel and gain significant ground in preparing for the future. Children will learn the strategies to live in a neurotypical world and be successful. As the parent, you will be instrumental in the entire process. There are parent training and resources available to assist you with living with an autistic child.
Targeted therapy will ensure your child’s needs are met. From academic achievement to social skills, your child will move forward in their journey and build self-esteem in the process.
Many valuable services and resources are available at a treatment center, such as:
- Early intervention
- Targeted intervention
- Parenting resources
- Parental services
- Group therapy
- Individualized therapy
Don’t let your child’s autism spectrum disorder diagnosis worry you. You have options for treatment. Now that you know more about — what is the autism cares act, reach out to a qualified treatment specialist, and get help today.