NY A06888

Requires health insurers to provide coverage for diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders, defined as pervasive developmental disorders per the DSM-IV-R including autism, Asperger's disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified.

Mandates coverage for diagnosis includes tests, evaluations, and assessments prescribed or ordered by licensed physicians or psychologists with expertise in autism spectrum disorders, including early indication screening for children under three years old.

Requires coverage for treatment services including psychiatric care, psychological care, habilitative/rehabilitative care, pediatric care, neurological care, therapeutic care (behavioral, speech, occupational, and physical therapies), and social skills education training.

Requires insurers to maintain procedures for specialist referrals to providers with appropriate training and experience, including standing referrals for ongoing specialist care at no additional cost beyond standard in-network services.

Applies to individual health insurance policies, group/blanket accident and health policies, and medical expense indemnity corporations; effective January 1st following enactment for all policies issued, renewed, or modified on or after that date.