The state senate has started debating whether private insurance companies should cover treatment of Autism disorders. Wentzville Senator Scott Rupp says, “Out of all of the neuro-biological disorders, which autism is, the top ten are all covered by insurance except autism which is number two in prevalence. ” He says it affects more children than children’s cancer, diabetes and other illnesses and disorders.
Rupp says latest figures from the Centers for Disease Control estimate one out of every 91 children in the nation is on the Autism spectrum. He says there would be a massive public outcry if one out of 91 children became a kidnap victim but if police refuse to look for them because it’s not in their job description.
Rupp says the insurance industry’s refusal to cover Autism therapies is a similar situation. But he says there is too much research, science, and data showing the therapies are proven and effective for insurance companies to keep saying they’re experimental.
More debate is scheduled for tomorrow.
The Senate passed the bill last year 29-2 but it never was debate in the House.
Sen Rupp’s opening statement 17:38 mp3
Link to summary of the bill:
http://www.senate.mo.gov/10info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=3157601
