Private Pay Options

As a parent with a child diagnosed with autism, you may be looking into treatment. There are many options when it comes to paying for treatment obtained. No matter the type of treatment (occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, etc…), it is important that you know there are many payment options. They include:

• State funding

State funding may be an option, though it can be hard to find.

• Public schools

Public schools provide certain treatments for autism free of charge under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) of 2004. This law requires that public schools provide these services for those in need.

• Insurance

There is also a possibility that your insurance provider will cover treatment.

You may run into obstacles along the way but do not be discouraged. It is good to be prepared, though, for some of the challenges you may face. These may include:

•             You may not be able to find state funding.

•             Your child may not be enrolled in a public school.

•             Your insurance may not cover the type of treatment your child needs, or the treatment center may not accept the type of insurance you have.

Private pay

In the event that none of the above options work out for you, private pay may be an option. Some treatment centers/providers will be happy to make private payment arrangements with you. Your first step should be to browse around with the intention to find a quality treatment center/provider. Be sure to prepare a list of questions and bring that list with you. Once you have found quality treatment, ask them about their private pay options. They should be able to explain their payment policies to you in detail.

References:

IDEA 2004. (n.d.). Idea.ed.gov: Building the Legacy. Retrieved April 1, 2011, from idea.ed.gov

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