Trump Is Right To Crack Down On Medicaid Fraud. Autism Providers Should Help Him.

I’m a psychologist and board-certified behavior analyst who has worked in the autism services field for 25 years. I know firsthand how much access to quality care can mean to a child and his or her family. I am outraged that a few bad actors have abused or outright defrauded autism benefits under Medicaid in several states, consuming limited resources that are meant to benefit the families I serve. Reforms are needed to protect and continue serving those truly in need.

Applied behavior analysis, or ABA, is an evidence-based treatment used to help people with autism develop skills involving communication, learning, social interaction, and daily living. Children meet with a behavior technician who coaches them through structured activities. For many children and families, access to ABA can be life-changing.