SB: 668 Hawaii Autism Insurance Reform Bill- Submit Testimony

Aloha,

I encourage folks to submit testimony while the "doors" are open so to speak.  This is an encouraging bill.  However, I am troubled by language that may in practice limit families to ABA treatments.  With such a diverse population it is critical that families have a wide variety of choice when choosing autism treatments.

I am also troubled by the omission of Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW) as providers.  There is a shortage of licensed professionals who specialize in Autism Spectrum Disorders, to omit a population of providers who are able to provide an equal level of assessment, diagnosis and treatment as a licensed clinical psychologist (listed in the bill) seems a gross oversight that would only be a disservice to families- especially those on the neighbor islands where professionals with expertise is already limited.

You may view the entire bill here:
http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session2013/Bills/SB668_.pdf

And submit written testimony or in person (on Oahu) here:
http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/submittestimony.aspx  Simply enter Bill:  SB 668

Written Testimony is only open prior to the hearing on Wednesday January 30th, 2pm.

Senator Roz Baker, who represents much of Maui is Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Health who will be hearing testimony on the bill may also be contacted via email at senbaker@capitol.hawaii.gov

I am very hopeful that Hawai`i will soon be added to the growing number of states with mandated insurance coverage and with expansions in the legislative language families will have an abundance of choices of treatments and providers.

Best,
Lauren, MSW (and working towards her LCSW)
RDI Program Certified Consultant