How do I apply for an autism brain waiver?

Question

My 5 year old son has autism and is in need of more services. Could someone please help me with this? I live in New York State (upstate).

Answer 1

This depends on if a developmental pediatrician gave him the autism diagnosis, if you have applied for SSI for him, and if he is attending public school. More detail and I can probably help.

Answer 2

In Minnesota, we have a program called TEFRA that is not income dependent and is available for these types of situations. It is a form of health insurance, but it doesn't matter is you already have insurance. I am not sure if there is something similar available in New York. I think the catch is you must have a medical diagnosis of autism not just an educational diagnosis.

I would talk to the autism specialist within your school district for ideas. I would also check out the New York Department of Education's website to see what is available. My son has autism and the biggest barrier to our finding something to help us get him extra services is that we always made too much money to qualify. Which is why I suggested Tefra.

Answer 3

Most states have regional centers that coordinate services for children with disabilities. If you have a rep through a regional center, ask that person. I'm not sure what a "brain waiver" is but if you are talking about a medicaid waiver the rep should be able to help you with paperwork and other services. If you need more services in the school, you need to have it written into your son's IEP.