MSSNY President Paul Hamlin, MD, Praises Governor's Signing of S.4005.A/A.6305-A

ALBANY, NY (11/01/2011)(readMedia)-- Paul A. Hamlin, MD, President, Medical Society of the State of New York said, "On behalf of the physician members of the Medical Society of the State of New York, the signing of this bill is a momentous event. The measure will expand health insurance coverage for the screening, diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders. Patients are often faced with significant gaps in treatments which may be needed over and above those provided pursuant to an individualized family, education, or service plan. We commend Governor Cuomo, Senator Fuschillo and Assemblyman Morelle for their foresight in championing this legislation which will expedite diagnosis and treatment by providing insurance parity for autism sufferers and result in better long-term health outcomes."

In May of 2011, the Centers for Disease Control estimated that the number of children with autism is 1 in 110 nationwide, making it more common than pediatric cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined. There is no cure for autism, but it is a treatable condition. Most physicians agree that early intervention treatment programs are important. Treatment options may include medical, behavioral and educational interventions, dietary changes or medications to manage or relieve the symptoms of autism. These treatments may be costly. Some families may spend more than $50,000 per year on autism-related therapies. A study in 2006 by the Harvard School of Public Health estimated that it costs $3.2 million to take care of an individual with autism over his or her lifetime.

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