BALTIMORE \u2013 Maryland\u2019s Autism Waiver program has been expanded to provide services and supports to an additional 100 children living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in communities across the State. <\/p>\n
Governor Larry Hogan\u2019s fiscal year 2018 budget included $2.2 million in added funding to support the 100 new slots. The new budget year, which began this month, brings State funding for the Waiver to $21.6 million, and a total of 1,100 slots for Waiver services. The Autism Waiver is administered by the MSDE and Maryland Department of Health.<\/p>\n
\u201cGovernor Hogan\u2019s funding commitment provides the opportunity for more children and their families to take advantage of these critical services, supporting them in their homes and communities,\u201d said Dr. Karen Salmon, State Superintendent of Schools.<\/p>\n
Marcella E. Franczkowski, Assistant State Superintendent for MSDE\u2019s Division of Special Education\/Early Intervention Services, said the program has provided support for Maryland\u2019s children and families since 2001. <\/p>\n
Waiver services are provided to eligible children who receive special education services. It offers additional support after school, in their homes, and in the community. Services may include:<\/p>\n
\u2022\trespite care
\n\u2022\tenvironmental accessibility adaptations
\n\u2022\tfamily consultation, residential habilitation
\n\u2022\tintensive individual support services
\n\u2022\ttherapeutic integration
\n\u2022\tadult life planning. <\/p>\n
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC):<\/p>\n
\u2022\tAn average of one in 68 children in the United States are diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder
\n\u2022\tIn Maryland, rates are higher than the national average, with one in 55 children in the State diagnosed with autism. <\/p>\n
Waiver services are jointly funded by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and the State of Maryland. More information is available at https:\/\/uat.154web.com\/marylandlearninglinks\/autism-waiver\/.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"