Sheriffs in Pico Rivera and Los Angeles County initiate Autism Decal initiative
Supporting Individuals with Autism in Los Angeles County
Los Angeles County, California, is home to a growing number of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). According to national estimates, about 16.8 per 1,000 children aged 8 years have ASD, a figure that is likely relevant to California as well.
For those diagnosed with ASD in Los Angeles County, there are several support programs available. Medi-Cal in California covers medically necessary Behavioral Health Treatment (BHT) services for eligible children under 21, including those with autism. These services are provided through regional centers contracted by the state, such as the Regional Center of Orange County, although a similar center exists for LA County residents.
Private insurance plans in California are also required to cover autism services such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), an evidence-based therapy for ASD in minors, under state law (SB 946) and federal mandates.
However, challenges remain in equitable access to diagnostic tools like genetic testing. Despite national guidelines recommending it, genetic testing for children with ASD who are covered by Medicaid is underutilized, and there are noted racial disparities in access to such testing in Medicaid populations.
Beyond formal services, broader support pillars reported to benefit children with ASD include inclusive education, accepting social environments, and supportive homes. These multidisciplinary and community-based approaches are crucial in fostering a supportive environment for individuals with ASD.
Recently, the Irving Moskowitz Foundation donated $25,000 to Autism Speaks, a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders and funding research into their causes. The donation was presented at the Hawaiian Gardens Bingo Club in a ceremony last week, with proceeds from the poker tournament benefiting Autism Speaks' Southern California mission.
In addition, Pico Rivera has partnered with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department - Pico Rivera Station to launch the Occupant with Autism Decal Program. The program offers free decals to community members who care for individuals with autism or know someone with autism. The decals are intended to provide emergency personnel with a clear indication that there is an individual with autism present.
Residents who do request the decals are encouraged to participate in the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Special Alert Program. The Autism Decal is just one of the ways that the community is working to support individuals with ASD in Los Angeles County.
In conclusion, individuals with ASD in Los Angeles County have access to Medi-Cal funded BHT services and mandated insurance coverage for autism therapies. While challenges remain in equitable access to diagnostic tools, social acceptance and inclusive schooling are recognized as critical components of support beyond formal services. The donation from the Irving Moskowitz Foundation and initiatives like the Occupant with Autism Decal Program are testament to the community's commitment to supporting individuals with ASD.
- The community news in Los Angeles County spotlights the recent donation of $25,000 by the Irving Moskowitz Foundation to Autism Speaks, aimed at increasing awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorders and funding research into their causes.
- In an effort to promote mental health and wellness, the Pico Rivera community has partnered with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department to launch the Occupant with Autism Decal Program, offering free decals to residents and providing emergency personnel with clear indications of individuals with autism present.
- Community support for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder goes beyond formal services, as evidenced by the inclusion of acceptance in social environments and support at home, as well as environmental initiatives like the promotion of inclusive education, which are crucial in fostering a supportive environment.
