Latest News On Autism

Latest KFF Health News Stories

Delays for Autism Diagnosis and Treatment Grew Even Longer During the Pandemic

KFF Health News Original

Despite increased public awareness, research advances, and wider insurance coverage for autism therapies, children often wait months — in some cases more than a year — to get an autism diagnosis and begin intervention services. The waits can be longer for Black and Latino children, and families in rural areas are also disadvantaged, without access to providers.

Push Is On for States to Ban Organ Transplant Discrimination

KFF Health News Original

States are passing laws that would prevent people with Down syndrome, autism and other disabilities from being denied transplants solely because of their conditions.

With Mom’s Green Card On The Line, Family Forgoes Autism Services For Citizen Child

KFF Health News Original

A Texas girl needs autism treatment, but her immigrant mother is afraid of turning to Medicaid. As more U.S. children go without health coverage, advocates blame politics of intimidation.

Nowhere To Go: Young People With Severe Autism Languish In Hospitals

KFF Health News Original

Some teens and young adults are spending weeks or even months in retrofitted emergency rooms — even in mesh-covered tents — until specialized care can be found. ‘It’s a huge problem,’ one doctor says.

Slowing Down The ER To Improve Care For Patients With Autism

KFF Health News Original

A small but growing number of hospital emergency rooms are taking steps to improve quality of care for patients with autism while also adding efficiency and cost effectiveness.

Narrow Marketplace Plans In Texas Pose Problems For Autistic Children

KFF Health News Original

The move away from policies that allow families to seek out-of-network care is forcing many parents with autistic children to consider covering therapy costs themselves.