Autism in Utah

I enjoyed attending the recent Autism Conference at Sugarhouse  Park.  Autism is a neuro- behavioral disease which has recently received increased attention locally and nationally.  There is an especially high prevalence of autism in Utah. The conference was well attended and very informative.  Even as a physician I learned a great deal, especially about the efficacy of early recognition and treatment.  Such early diagnosis and intervention by trained medical personnel can result in better outcomes and improved prognosis.  This can result in lifelong benefits of improved academic, behavioral and social functioning of the autism patient.  However, many patients remain untreated and under-treated due to lack of insurance or private funds by patient's families.  This  under-treated condition then becomes chronic, resulting in huge medical, social and long term economic costs, estimated to be 1.5-3 million dollars per patient.  This a huge, unaffordable, unsustainable burden to the patient, their loved ones and our communities.  Some families are forced onto Medicaid insurance due to the costs.

In Utah we have previously had legislation that addressed the recognition of autism as a disease and also insurance coverage.  However, we still have gaps in coverages.  The estimated increase in insurance costs resulting from treating autism, if any, would be relatively small.  The  long term health, social and economic benefits of early treatment to the patient, their families and to the community are very big.  It makes good sense on many levels to address a change in insurance to treat and prevent the consequences of this disease.  It is a common-sense measure for which I am proud to voice my support.