What are Kansas Autism Benefits?

What Medicaid benefits are available for autism in Kansas?
Kansas Medicaid (KanCare) provides comprehensive autism benefits:

ABA therapy with no session limits when medically necessary
Speech therapyOccupational therapy
Physical therapy
Diagnostic evaluations
HCBS waiver services (based on age and eligibility)
All services require prior authorization but carry 100% coverage with no copays for Medicaid recipients.

Does Kansas have an autism insurance mandate?
Kansas law requires certain health insurance plans to cover autism spectrum disorder treatments, including ABA therapy. Coverage requirements vary by plan type. Private insurance typically covers ABA therapy with prior authorization, though some plans have annual visit limits or age caps.

What financial assistance is available for autism services in Kansas?
Beyond Medicaid:
HCBS waivers provide respite care and parent training
Katie Beckett Program (if your child would qualify for Medicaid in an institution but not at home due to parental income)
SSI benefits for children with disabilities
State Aid dollars managed by local CDDOs

Are there educational benefits for autistic children in Kansas?
Children with autism qualify for special education services under IDEA. Your child is entitled to:
Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)Individualized Education Program (IEP)Related services (speech, OT, behavioral support)
Extended School Year (ESY) services if needed

Kansas also offers the Autism Waiver's parent training component and school-based support through the I/DD waiver for children 5+.

Can I get paid to care for my autistic child in Kansas?
Some HCBS waivers allow family members to provide certain services and receive compensation, though options are limited. The Autism Waiver doesn't currently offer self-directed respite care. Check with your local CDDO about caregiver compensation options under other waivers as your child ages.