Updates to autism guidelines were overdue
I am writing in response to the Dec. 16 article “New Autism Recommendations Target Transitions, Early Detection.” The article highlighted recent changes in the American Academy of Pediatrics’ guidelines for autism spectrum disorder. These changes included proactive steps for early diagnosis and intervention for children at risk for autism.
As a student of occupational therapy, I believe that these updated guidelines for autism will allow for more children to receive occupational therapy and related services. With the American Academy of Pediatrics promoting early intervention, insurance providers will be more likely to pay for treatment at a younger age. Even children without an official diagnosis who are considered atrisk will qualify for services. This could have a great impact, as research shows that early intervention is key for positive outcomes in people with autism.
Occupational therapists are experts at providing lifelong care for individuals with autism, and now our services may be recognized to begin intervention earlier and extend our services into adulthood for this population.
I believe that these updates to the AAP’s autism spectrum disorder guidelines were far overdue, and it is time that the health care system begin promoting early screening and early intervention to increase quality of life for individuals with this disorder. I would like to thank the Post-Gazette for shining a light on a subject that could have been easily overlooked.
CAITLYN WEAR Mount Washington standing military required or to fill those ranks with people other than the National Guard or Reserves and to allow those people to resume their lives. free of this burden placed upon them so that politicians can evade their responsibility and the need to honor their obligation to all citizens. These men and women have earned our thanks and should now be allowed to begin the healing process, without the Damoclean Sword of additional deployments hanging over their head. WILLIAM TAYLOR
Whitehall The writer is a Vietnam veteran.