This happens in the US all the time. Most states do not have what Connecticut calls a "voluntary path" that allows parents secure the extensive services many autistic and mentally ill kids sometime need. Insurance only goes so far; it won't provide extended care beyond hospitalization. I know; I've been there. But in CT, I didn't have to give up my parental rights to get my kid the level of care we needed three years ago when he was really, really sick.
And only three states require parity for mental illness by law. All other states? You can be refused any coverage for care related to mental illness. I'm not sure about autism.
I know I'm muddying the waters by talking autism and mental illness in the same breath, but half of the autistic population also suffers serious mood disorders AND both childhood populations are likely to fall through the same cracks.
Time magazine had an article about this situation two or three years ago. It focused on mental illness and surrendering parental rights rather than autism. I'll try to find a copy of it and send it to you, if you like.
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timeasmymeasure
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Date: 2005-03-22 10:24 pm (UTC)And only three states require parity for mental illness by law. All other states? You can be refused any coverage for care related to mental illness. I'm not sure about autism.
I know I'm muddying the waters by talking autism and mental illness in the same breath, but half of the autistic population also suffers serious mood disorders AND both childhood populations are likely to fall through the same cracks.
Time magazine had an article about this situation two or three years ago. It focused on mental illness and surrendering parental rights rather than autism. I'll try to find a copy of it and send it to you, if you like.