The State Department of Social Services is currently in the process of developing a comprehensive plan which will be presented to the Autism Spectrum Disorder Advisory Council for recommendation by mid-December. Currently experts agree that children and young adults throughout the state have fallen through the cracks whereupon thousands have reportedly been unable to gain access to crucial treatment and services.
With studies indicating that therapy for individuals on the spectrum is critical in helping to increase their overall functionality and prognosis, the state government is recognizing the importance of improving public healthcare requirements and stipulations. Jay Sicklick, deputy director of Hartford’s Center for Children’s Advocacy acknowledges the need for changes stating:
“We know early intervention strategies can be effective in assisting kids along the autism spectrum to reach a much higher level of functioning.”
However despite the adjustments set to be made, there remains a shortage of certified autism specialists throughout the state. Thus, in an effort to mitigate what Sicklick refers to as a “workforce problem” the credentialing process will now be expedited in hopes of alleviating the difficulties parents face when seeking services for their children.