Funding early autism treatment will save money in the future, bill’s advocates say
By Kristen Consillio, The Honolulu Star-Advertiser | |
McClatchy-Tribune Information Services |
Senate Bill 2054, also known as Luke's Law, would mandate that health insurers, mutual benefit societies and health maintenance organizations provide coverage for children with autism spectrum disorder, a benefit that would drive up premium rates.
The state
"When you add all those costs up, it's a pretty significant cost to the state," she said.
"By treating these children, studies show about half of them can become mainstream without needing additional services."
Ito estimates there are several thousand children with autism in
Without insurance coverage, parents can pay up to
"We have been paying our health insurance premiums but we are denied benefits for our children who have autism," said
In testimony opposing the legislation,
"While the bill attempts to shield the state from bearing the cost burden, it does not do so,"
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