![]() We are only beginning to understand the communication lines between the gut and the brain - also referred to as the gut-brain axis - but every condition that has an immune component to it has been correlated to some dysfunction of the gut. Autism and the gut-brain connectionĬalled the “second brain” in medical literature, your gut is home to around 80% of your immune system. Understanding these underlying factors can help us better support individuals with autism. ![]() It's important to note that autism is not a disease or an illness - it's a lifelong condition that is believed to have both genetic and environmental factors contributing to its development. Each person with autism is unique, with their own strengths and challenges, and may require different levels of support or accommodations to thrive. Some may also experience sensory sensitivities, finding certain stimuli (like loud noises or bright lights) overwhelming. Individuals with autism may experience challenges in social situations, have difficulty with non-verbal communication cues (such as facial expressions, body language, or tone of voice), and display repetitive behaviors or highly focused interests. It is referred to as a spectrum disorder because it can manifest in a wide range of ways and severity levels, hence the term "spectrum." Services covered include well-baby and well-child screening for diagnosing the presence of autism spectrum disorder and the treatment of autism spectrum disorder through speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy and applied behavioral analysis.Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects social interaction, communication skills, behavior, and often includes repetitive behaviors or restricted interests. While not funded through DDSD, families with a child with a diagnosis of ASD with private health insurance coverage can access autism services because of Senate Bill 39 - Coverage for Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosis and Treatment that was signed into law in 2009, mandating health insurance coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders in persons 19 years old and younger or 22 years old and younger if enrolled in high school. To learn about eligibility, see the State of New Mexico’s New Mexico Human Services Department Medicaid Portal. ![]() This service is covered under the Behavioral Health benefit package and families should contact their Care Coordinator within the Managed Care Organization ( MCO) under which they are enrolled. While not funded through DDSD, families with a child with diagnosis of ASD who is eligible for Medicaid can request to receive Applied Behavioral Analysis ( ABA) services in accordance with NMAC 8.321.2.10. If you are wondering where to start in accessing services for a family member with ASD, please visit the UNM Autism Programs website. Services and supports include diagnostic evaluations, resources and supports for families, parent and community raining, and more. The Developmental Disabilities Supports Division ( DDSD) provides an array of services that are available to children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder ( ASD) and their families.įunds are available based on Legislative appropriation from the State General Funds and there may be waiting lists for these services in some communities due to the limited funding availability.ĭDSD funds and partners with the University of New Mexico ( UNM) Center for Developmental Disability Autism Programs.
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