What should I expect when inquiring about ABA services?
*Disclaimer: Please note that what to expect during the inquiry and onboarding process with vary depending on the company, the funding source, and the state you are located in. In Texas most ABA services are conducted through private clinics that bill insurance.
Typically, when you first inquire about services you will be asked to fill out some general paperwork to get some background information on your child. Paperwork requirements will vary depending on the organization. You will be asked to submit a diagnostic report as a medical Autism diagnosis is required in Texas in order to qualify through insurance for ABA services. You will also be asked to submit a copy of your insurance cards to verify benefits. Depending on the area you live in, there may be a waitlist for services, so they may ask you submit this documentation prior to your child being added to the waitlist.
A tour is usually offered prior to scheduling an assessment. This allows you to get a feel for the clinic and to ensure it is a good fit for your child. This is also a good time to ask any initial questions you have about services or daily operations.
Once there is anticipated availability to bring on your child, a request will be submitted for prior authorization from your insurance in order to schedule the assessment. Keep in mind many insurances have up to a 15-day turnaround time for the authorization. There may be additional paperwork you are asked to complete prior to the assessment at this point. This allows the BCBA to adequately determine the appropriate assessment to conduct for your child based on their needs. The assessment gives you the opportunity to meet the BCBA and for the BCBA to assess your child to determine their medical recommendation for service hours.
Once the assessment has been conducted, the BCBA will write a plan for treatment and review with you prior to submitting to insurance. The document will provide background information, a summary of the assessment information and an outline of anticipated goals for treatment. For an anticipated next steps, it is best to talk with the provider about their anticipated timelines. From the time the authorization for treatment has been submitted, again many insurances have a 15-day turnaround time. Once insurance has approved your authorization for treatment, the organization will soon be in touch to schedule an anticipated start for services.