Public Listening Sessions Added to Discuss Future of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy

The state of Indiana is seeking input on how to reduce soaring Medicaid costs for a popular autism therapy while maintaining access to Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) treatment. A 21-member working group has been assembled by the Indiana Family and Social Services Association (FSSA) to study ways to cut costs.

The group has held two previous public listening sessions, one in Valparaiso and another in Richmond, with a third session scheduled for Thursday, July 24, in Evansville. However, some critics felt that the lack of public sessions, including none in Indianapolis, was intentional.

“If they really were concerned with what we had to say they would put [the sessions] in a pretty populated area where a lot of these caregivers are actually using these services,” said Lesley La Fleur, who has a 13-year-old son with autism.

In response to complaints, the FSSA announced it will be adding public listening sessions, including one in Indianapolis and another statewide session that will be held online. Both new sessions are still being scheduled, and individuals can email their thoughts to [email protected]

Indiana Medicaid expenditures for ABA therapy have spiked from $14.4 million dollars in 2017 to $120 million in 2019, according to the FSSA, and is projected to hit $645 million by 2026.

“Clearly, there is a problem they’re trying to mitigate,” La Fleur said. “I would say just don’t take it out on the children.”

The working group will submit their recommendations to Governor Mike Braun by November.

The third public listening session is scheduled for Thursday, July 24, from 3-4 p.m. at Ivy Tech Evansville, 3501 N First Ave., in room 107.