Autism community voices concerns over reclassification
A statement on behalf of the Els for Autism Foundation
Els for Autism has received numerous communications from our expanded family including doctors, educators, therapists, parents and grandparents about the proposed reclassification of the Autism Spectrum Disorder in the fifth edition of the APA Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).
Els for Autism shares the concerns many in our community have regarding the changes, which could result in unintended consequences limiting treatment access for families throughout the autism community.
As the DSM is the reference that healthcare providers must use to diagnose mental and behavioral conditions, it influences both the availability of treatments and insurance coverage. How these changes in the reclassification of Autism will ultimately impact autism families and professionals is currently being widely discussed. There are many factors to consider including the interpretation of the revised classification by insurance companies and state legislatures. Advocacy is critical and we urge the autism community at large to review the situation carefully. Voice your concerns to the American Psychiatric Association by email at apa@psych.org and your legislature.
"As a father, I know how important therapy has been in benefiting my son," said Ernie Els. "The Els for Autism community is voicing concern regarding what the revised criteria could have for autism families who struggle to come to terms with this tragic disorder. We will continue to gather information so that we can try to ensure that no child lose access to critical therapies."
