An Update from the Autism Society President on 1 in 50
April 2, 2013
By Autism Society
Last week, a study reported that as many as 1 out of 50 children is diagnosed with autism. The results show that as a nation we are doing a better job getting children screened for autism.
While certainly it is good to study the incidence of autism, it is as important to help the one in 50 who is diagnosed. The other day, I learned that, at a minimum, there are currently 500,000 individuals with developmental disabilities waiting for government funded services. We can study and study and study incidence, but, sooner or later, we must help those who are already diagnosed. The amount we spend on research and incidence study, as well as examining cause of disability has to be balanced with an equal commitment of attention to the needs of those living with autism today. Studying incidence does little to help people living with autism today.
We must do all we can to advocate that the needs of those living with autism today be addressed by a caring society. We must all advocate and seek responses from those in leadership roles on the effective use of limited dollars to help each person living with autism achieve the highest quality of life.
Learning about the incidence of autism does little for the single parent who struggles getting help for her son with autism. It does little for the individual with autism who seeks training for a job that is commensurate with his skills. It does little to help the family that learns today that early treatment can help their newly diagnosed child, but funds are not available nor is insurance agreeing to help this family with costs that will ultimately save our society and the family millions of dollars.
People need help today and it is time for the nation to follow the Autism Society’s lead in doing something to support them. Change is needed on how to use limited dollars to help. The money is there. It is now time to discuss how that money can best be used.
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