Yes, insurance typically covers Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. All 50 states and Washington D.C. now mandate that private insurance plans provide coverage for autism therapies like ABA. Additionally, federal laws such as the Mental Health Parity Act have established a foundation for equitable mental health and autism benefits.
In Missouri, specifically, the HB 1571 law requires insurance companies to provide coverage for individuals between the ages of 2 and 18, often up to a yearly limit of $40,000. Missouri Medicaid (MO HealthNet) also covers ABA therapy with prior authorization. While insurance significantly reduces the cost of care—often by 60% to 80%—families may still be responsible for out-of-pocket expenses such as:
- Copays: Typically ranging from $20 to $60 per hour.
- Deductibles: Often between $1,000 and $5,000 annually, which must be met before full benefits begin.
- Session limits: Some plans may cap coverage between 20 and 40 hours per week.
HeartCore ABA assists families in Kansas City by providing a free benefits verification process. They contact insurers directly to provide a written summary of approved sessions, hours, and specific out-of-pocket costs within 24 to 48 hours.
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