Autism Task Force Feedback: Hot Springs

The last thirty minutes of the presentation were to collect feedback for the Autism Task Force. Karan wrote down various comments from the audience of critical needs for those with autism.  Here’s the complete list:

• Insurance mandate
• More provider training
• Respite care
• Transportation
• Education for families
• Summer programs for children
• Child care options
• Behavior piece as part of evaluation
• Medicaid billing label
• Mentoring and support for new families
• Education of medical community
• Targeted case services
• More HCBW funding
• Change DCFS

At this point all of the audience of 20 (I didn’t put up dots) placed three sticky dots by what he or she considered the most critical items. A person could put all three dots by one item, or split them among different topics. Most of the audience were providers, but a few parents were also in attendance.

The winners were:

1. Respite care and Insurance Mandate (tie)

2. Summer programs for children

3. More professional staff development