Autism Treatment Funding Task Force Established in Indiana

Indiana's Medicaid program for Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, a widely-used treatment for children with autism, faces sustainability challenges, prompting state officials to seek cost-cutting measures. Governor Mike Braun signed an executive order to form a task force dedicated to exploring potential funding solutions.

"Without the coverage from Medicaid, they wouldn't receive those services,” said Kayla Kirkpatrick, a mother of two elementary school children on the autism spectrum.

Kirkpatrick put her kids in ABA therapy last summer. She said that before they were in ABA therapy, simple tasks like haircuts and grocery shopping were difficult for her children. Since ABA, though, she says they are now thriving.

"I am super protective of them," Kirkpatrick said. "I just want what is best for them and seeing how much they have grown and changed in the short amount of time that they have been in ABA therapy really reassures me that I made the right choice for them."

According to the governor's office, by 2026, more than 8,000 Indiana families are expected to rely on Medicaid funding for ABA therapy, with costs projected to reach $645 million. The newly formed task force aims to ensure the continuation of this essential program while identifying areas for cost reductions.

“We are going to do everything to take care of the underlying need to put the resources together but we are not going to deficit spend to do it or anything else in our state government,” Braun stated.

A recent federal audit revealed that Indiana made $39 million in improper payments for ABA therapy. In response, FSSA made changes to the program.

Julie Gordon, owner of The Hope Source ABA provider, emphasized the importance of reviewing the audit findings and creating clear guidelines for providers.

“Looking at the federal audit, dissecting all of that, like what is actually going on, how can we make clear guidelines, how can we make sure that providers are following that,” she said.

The task force will include parents, providers, and government stakeholders, with their findings expected to be delivered to the governor by November 30.

The state of Indiana has established an Autism Treatment Funding Task Force, aimed at increasing access to autism treatment services for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). According to Governor Eric Holcomb, "The goal of this task force is to identify and address the funding barriers that are hindering our ability to provide necessary services to Hoosiers with autism."

Chairing the task force is Dr. Karen Blum, who stated, "We will work together to develop a comprehensive plan to increase access to autism treatment services, focusing on evidence-based practices and community partnerships." The task force includes representatives from state government agencies, healthcare organizations, advocacy groups, and other stakeholders.

The Autism Treatment Funding Task Force will hold its first meeting in the coming weeks. "This is an important step forward for Indiana's efforts to support individuals with autism," said Governor Holcomb.