An ongoing debate at Georgia’s state Capitol surrounds reductions in autism therapy funding for foster children. State Sen. Brian Strickland, along with families, calls for reversing the 30% reduction in reimbursement rates. These cuts, effective from Sept. 1, impact Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, administered by Amerigroup for Medicaid-covered children in foster care.
Sen. Strickland, a parent of a child with autism and candidate for state attorney general, firmly opposes these cuts. “ABA therapy’s importance is undeniable,” Strickland stated, emphasizing his commitment to holding companies accountable if elected.
“Such reductions are indefensible,” Strickland expressed.
The opposition grows from concerns sparked by earlier reports that these rate cuts could inadvertently halt therapy for foster children. This is part of the broader Medicaid fraud crackdown initiated by the Trump administration.
Taylor Sanders of the Autism Families Alliance highlights the urgency, noting increased advocacy since the cuts took effect. “Timing is critical,” Sanders stressed, adding that missed services could regress communication and safety skills.
“About 75% of clinics risk closure due to these cuts,” Sanders warned.
One family in distress includes a mother of a 3-year-old who began speaking thanks to ABA therapy. Now, with therapy’s future uncertain, the mother fears losing this vital care.
Kelsey Bennett, also from the Autism Families Alliance, underlined the importance of therapy timing. “Missing care risks reversing progress,” Bennett stated, urging for policy reconsideration and stakeholder involvement in decisions.
Responding, Amerigroup mentioned adjustments based on service complexities, yet maintained coverage for necessary autism services. They claim rate increases for treatment planning and caregiver services, though technician service rates decreased.
Sanders clarified these reductions negatively impact technicians who are integral to providing one-on-one care. Concerns persist that companies may shut down if unable to sustain operations under reduced rates.
“Progress, once lost, is difficult to recover,” Sanders concluded, urging reconsideration of the cuts.
Efforts to combat Medicaid fraud, spearheaded by President Trump’s administration, face criticism for unintended access consequences for foster children needing therapy.