Financial Resources
Creekside Autism Center works to support families navigating an autism diagnosis by
highlighting resources available to them. Below is a detailed breakdown of treatment
options and financial support programs that might help alleviate some of the stress
families face:
Insurance Coverage:
Autism Insurance Mandates:
All U.S. states, except for Texas and Wyoming, have some form of autism insurance mandate. This means insurance plans must cover treatments for autism, which often include therapy (ABA, speech, occupational therapy, physical therapy, etc.), diagnostics, and sometimes social skills training.
Private Insurance Plans:
Families should review their insurance plans to confirm the specific coverage, as it can vary by state and provider. Key things to check include covered therapies, copayments, and if there are any exclusions.
Out-of-Network Insurance:
If your family is out of network with many insurance companies, it’s important to check whether your insurance plan offers any out-of-network benefits, as some plans may still cover a portion of the costs, even if you’re outside their network.
Medicaid and Primary Insurance:
If you have Medicaid, it can work alongside your primary insurance, even if it’s out-of-network. Medicaid can file the claims with your primary insurance and help cover the remaining costs, reducing out-of pocket expenses for medical services. This coordination can help streamline the payment process.
We encourage families to check their out-of-network benefits, as it may offer additional coverage options, and Medicaid can act as a safety net to help manage costs.
Insurance Plans accepted at Creekside:
Coverage Statement
We want to help make your experience with us as smooth as possible. For your convenience, we provide a list of insurance companies that we commonly work with. This list may change over time and may not include every insurance plan we accept. Just because your insurance is listed does not guarantee that your specific plan is accepted or that all services are covered.
We recommend that you speak with someone on our team members before your appointment. We are happy to help you understand how we bill insurance and can help point you in the right direction.
Give us a call and we can guide you through all of your coverage possibilities!
Aetna
Amerigroup
CareSource
Cigna
Medicaid
Blue Cross Blue Shield/Anthem
Peach State Health Plan
Medicaid in Georgia
Medicaid is a vital resource for many families, particularly in Georgia. Under
Medicaid, children with an autism diagnosis may have access to a wide range of
services:
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy:
This is one of the most common and evidence-based treatments for autism, and Medicaid in Georgia covers ABA for eligible children.
Speech, Physical and Occupational Therapy:
Many children with autism benefit from speech and occupational therapies to improve communication and daily living skills.
Waiver Programs:
Programs like the Medicaid Home and Community-
Based Services (HCBS) waiver may provide additional financial support
for families.
State-Specific Programs in Georgia
Georgia Autism Support and Treatment (GAST):
GAST is a program that provides funding for autism-related services for children from low-income families.
Private Programs and Funding
Nonprofit Organizations:
Several nonprofits offer funding assistance or grant
programs for families in need. These organizations may cover therapy costs or provide financial assistance for other services.
Navigating Financial and Emotional Stress
Financial Planning:
It may be helpful for families to meet with financial advisors who specialize in special needs planning. These professionals can guide families on managing expenses related to therapies and other interventions.
Emotional Support and Advocacy:
Support groups for parents and caregivers, as well as individual therapy or counseling, can help families navigate the emotional challenges that often come with an autism diagnosis.
Creekside’s Role
By providing these resources, Creekside is helping parents understand and access the
support they need. As a clinic, offering information about insurance and financial
resources not only empowers families but also helps reduce the financial burden and
stress involved in securing treatment.
Federal Programs
Supplemental Security Income (SSI):
This is a program for children with disabilities who meet income and resource requirements. SSI provides monthly payments and Medicaid coverage, helping with medical bills, doctor visits, hospital stays, and other services.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI):
This program is available for
children whose families have a work history, and for children with a formal autism
diagnosis. SSDI is based on the family’s work record, and it can provide financial
benefits if the child meets the requirements.
Tax Credits:
Families may be eligible for various tax credits related to caring for a child with special needs. These credits can help offset costs associated with the child's care and treatment, and consulting with a tax expert is recommended to maximize available benefits.
These programs can provide significant support, but eligibility and benefits can vary depending on your specific circumstances, so it's important to review the application details and consult professionals when needed.
Georgia State Benefit Programs
Katie Beckett Waiver Program:
https://medicaid.georgia.gov/programs/all-programs/tefrakatie-beckett
o This Medicaid program helps families of disabled children by not
considering the family's income when determining eligibility.
o The child must meet specific criteria, including being considered disabled
under the Social Security Act, living with parents or caregivers (not in an
institution), being under 18, and not qualifying for SSI.
o The program provides medical insurance, exempts families from
deductibles and copays, and can help cover the cost of health insurance.
o Families need to provide documentation and complete various forms to
apply.
Family Support Services:
https://dbhdd.georgia.gov/be-compassionate/home-services/family-support-
services
o This program assesses each family's individual needs and provides
support such as medical equipment, advocacy, family education, and
more.
o To apply, families need to contact their local office, complete an
application, and provide supporting documentation.
New Options Waiver (NOW) & Comprehensive Supports Waiver (COMP):
https://georgia.gov/apply-new-option-waiver-program-now-and-comprehensive-
support-waiver-program-comp
o These programs provide support for individuals with developmental or
intellectual disabilities.
o Services offered may include behavior support, specialized medical
supplies, residential services, employment, and more.
o Eligibility requirements include Medicaid eligibility and a diagnosis of
intellectual disability, among other factors.
ABLE Accounts:
https://www.ablenow.com/
o These tax-advantaged savings accounts allow families to save or invest
without impacting means-tested benefits.
o They provide financial flexibility while preserving eligibility for Medicaid
and other assistance programs.
Dottie Adams Scholarship Fund:
https://gcdd.org/learning-opportunities-support-fund-guidelines
o This fund provides scholarships to individuals and families with
developmental disabilities to attend conferences, learning events, and
advocacy opportunities.
o The maximum scholarship amount is $2,500 per event.
o To apply, families need to submit an application, event details, and
information about how the event will benefit the child.
Our Trusted Partners for Autism and Family Support
Family Support Programs:
Monthly Support Groups: Designed to provide ongoing support and connection
for families facing the challenges of autism.
Respite Programs: Offering families the opportunity to take a break while
ensuring their loved ones are well cared for.
Family Camp: A fun, supportive environment for families to relax and bond while
accessing resources and support.
Programs for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum:
Summer Day Camp: A structured, supportive environment for individuals on the
spectrum to engage in fun, social activities during the summer.
Overnight Camps: Providing an immersive experience for individuals to build
social skills, independence, and confidence.
Social Skills Groups: Facilitated groups aimed at helping individuals enhance
their communication and social interaction abilities in a safe setting.
Parent Advocacy Referral List
SupportiveSteps GA
Empowering Families through Education & Advocacy (Suwanee, GA)
hello@supportivesteps.net
www.supportivesteps.net
@supportivestepsga