N.H. commission recommending more attention to autism
CONCORD, N.H.—A special commission says New Hampshire must significantly improve its care of people with autism or face billions of dollars in medical costs.
The Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorders says the state can help prevent the costs if action is taken.
Among its recommendations: bring education, medical and human service systems into alignment with nationally recognized best practices. These include universal screening at 18 and 24 months, at least 25 hours per week of intensive early intervention and new models to assist autistic adults find and keep jobs.
Autism spectrum disorder is a neurologically-based medical condition that impacts an individual's ability to communicate and to interact socially.
The commission will release its report Tuesday.
