It is clear that both Georgia and Nevada have well-developed programs for individuals living with autism. Both states provide access to various resources and assistance to those in need. Despite the similarities between their programs, there are also some distinct differences. Further information provided by:
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Access to Research-Based Treatments & Interventions
Both Georgia and Nevada have comprehensive programs to support those living with autism. For example, in Georgia, the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) provides access to various research-based treatments and interventions. These include Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), cognitive behavioral therapy, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, specialized diets, and psychopharmacological medications. In Nevada, the Division of Public & Behavioral Health (DPBH) also provides a range of treatments and interventions. They provide access to ABA, cognitive behavioral, speech and language, occupational, physical, nutritional, and crisis intervention services.
Funding sources
Regarding funding sources, Georgia Autism treatment programs are primarily supported by the state and federal government and private donations. In comparison, Nevada has implemented a unique Medicaid waiver program to help fund services for those living with autism. This is known as the ATAP, allowing individuals with autism to receive approved treatments and interventions while their families maintain certain levels of income.
Licensing Requirements for Professionals
Georgia and Nevada both have stringent licensing requirements for professionals providing autism treatments. In Georgia, these include DBHDD-approved qualifications such as a bachelor’s degree in psychology or education, Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) certification, or other approved credentials. In Nevada, providers must be licensed by the State of Nevada or possess a nationally recognized certification.
Acceptance of Insurance Providers
Insurance providers also vary in Georgia and Nevada. In Georgia, most insurance providers cover the cost of autism treatments such as applied behavioral analysis (ABA), occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, etc. However, some may not provide coverage for psychopharmacological medications. In Nevada, the same applies alongside Medicaid waiver programs that are available for individuals with autism who cannot obtain insurance coverage.
Key difference
While Georgia has recently made strides to expand its services for people with autism, Nevada has had more comprehensive services and strong networks of support in place. For example, Nevada has programs such as the Autism Treatment Assistance Program (ATAP) that provides monetary assistance & training to families for services and therapies, as well as a statewide autism registry that provides critical data about the demographics of individuals living with autism. Fundraising and advocacy efforts in Nevada have also been successful, establishing a statewide network of autism service providers.
Ultimately, both states are doing a great job of providing services for individuals with autism. With the help of specialists, therapists, family members, and other providers, treatment for autism can be successful. For more information about autism treatment in Georgia, contact the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities at 1-800-715-4225 or visit their website at http://dbhdd.georgia.gov/ In Nevada, for more information about autism treatment and support services, contact the Nevada autism treatment program at https://www.nevadaautism.com.
References;
Georgia Department of Mental Health. (n.a). Retrieved from: https://dbhdd.georgia.gov/be-dbhdd#:~:text=DBHDD%20services%20are%20accessible%2024,(800)%20715%2D4225.
Nevada Division of Public Health. (n.a).Retrieved from: https://dpbh.nv.gov/
Department of Human HealthATAP. https://adsd.nv.gov/Programs/Autism/ATAP/ATAP/