Autism - insurance coverage (lack of) WI wants to change that

[goddess40]

http://www.thewheelerreport.com/releases/Apr07/apr9/0409healthcaremandates.pdf

In the 2007-2009 State Budget Proposal
Governor Doyle’s 2007-2009 Wisconsin State Budget proposal contains three
health insurance mandates requiring:
• Increased coverage limits for treatment of mental health and alcohol and
other drug abuse problems.
• Coverage for autism spectrum disorders.
• Special handling of insurance claims in cases of procedural terminology
code changes and restriction or termination of policy coverage.

Check out that second bullet point - Once again insurance companies have decided to practice medicine and have decided that they don't have to cover autism spectrum disorders.
Here is a chance to crack that nasty streak, I've already contacted my reps.

This is a list of those that want to stop this from being included in the budget:
Independent Insurance
Agents of WI
Midwest Equipment Dealers
National Association of
Insurance and Financial
Advisors
National Federation of
Independent Business
Professional Insurance
Agents of WI
WEA Insurance Corporation
WI Association of Health
Plans
WI Association of Health
Underwriters
WI Auto and Truck Dealers
WI Automotive Aftermarket
Association
WI Automotive Parts
Association
WI Bankers Association
WI Farm Bureau Federation
WI Grocer's Association
WI Manufacturers and
Commerce
WI Petroleum Marketers and
Convenience Store
Association
WI Physicians Services
Insurance Corporation
WI Restaurant Association

[bleedingheart]

1. Here in Pennsylvania...the state covers the gap in coverage for

what is termed "wrap around" so that autistic children can get assistance.

It falls under Medicaid and is available to all kids under 18...no matter if their parents are wealthy or poor.

Now I think that is a good idea, however...it means that even people who have health insurance are using state services just because their own private insurance won't cover mental health benefits for more than 30 days...it is still a good thing because the kids get help...However it makes it a target for cuts by our state assembly and we have to fight this every year.

The best system would be universal healthcare for both body and mind...but I am told that is too "socialistic" for our country.