Shayans Law: or How'd You Like to Pay Out Of Pocket For Autism treatments?

I found this blog today and had to share as we are trying to get Shayans Law passed.

Shayan's Law or: How'd You Like To Pay Out Of Pocket For All Your Doctors?

http://geeked-up.blogspot.com/2009/01/shayans-law-or-howd-you-like-to-pay-out.html

You want to know something that's really awesome? When I take Bug to his doctor visits regarding his Asperger's (high functioning autism), I only have to pay around $200 a visit. I'm lucky, because his autism is high functioning and the free programs via his school system plus work I'm able to do from home are enough to get him along every day and help him succeed.There are families out there with children who have autism far more severe than Bug, who pay thousands a month for their treatment. Because Washington State does NOT require any insurance coverage for Autism Spectrum Disorder treatment.

Which means all costs--the expensive doctors: the main doctor, the speech therapist, the behavioral therapist, play therapy and even medication, comes straight out of parent's already-tight pockets (Thanks economy!).

People have been forced to move out of their homes to be able to afford treatment for their children, which is absolutely monstrous. Treatment these kids thrive on, treatments that help them adjust and succeed in every day life are seen as 'optional', I've met doctors who give LESS of a damn about what they do because they think they won't get paid and some parents aren't able to get their kids the aid they need at all because of the cost.Some very excellent and hard-working people have put together Shayan's Law, and passing it will mean insurance companies must cover ASD treatment in our state. This cause is a very near and dear one to my heart, as it directly affects not just my own family, but tons of other wonderful people across the state.

If you guys could take ten minutes today to show your support for us, yourselves and other people you know, that'd be wonderful. I don't really do this kind of thing often, but it's extremely important this law gets passed and what better platform to turn to than you guys?Thanks, all, we really appreciate it (and just to note, the phone script isn't mine).

Two Ways You Can Help
By Phone: Make nine brief calls to the Senate health care committee members' offices and read them the following script:
Hi. My name is _____________. I live in ______, and I want to ask you a favor. I have/know a (child/grandchild/godson with autism) or (am a teacher/ therapist of a child with autism), and I would like for you to vote yes!!! for Shayan's Law-Senate Bill 5203.Shayan's law provides medically necessary treatments for autism. Please vote 'yes' on this bill.

Karen Keiser, Chair: (360) 786-7664
Rosa Franklin, Vice Chair: (360) 786-7656
Randi Becker: (360) 786-7602
Cheryl Pflug: (360) 786-7608
Darlene Fairley: (360) 786-7662
Chris Marr: (360) 786-7610
Ed Murray: (360) 786-7628
Linda Evans Parlette: (360) 786-7622
Margarita Prentice: (360) 786-7616

If the Legislator or Legislative Aide asks for more information about the bill, refer him or her to Arzu Forough, Arzu@WashingtonAutismAdvocacy.org

By email:

1. CALL AND EMAIL THE CHAIR OF THE SENATE COMMITTEE, Senator Karen Keiser, today and continue to call her for the next 48 hours. Ask her to please schedule a vote on Shayan's Law in an executive session! Share your personal stories and convey the following message: Autism is a treatable medical condition. Insurance should cover the treatment. Be polite and persistent. Ask her to please schedule the bill for an executive session vote so that it can continue through the legislative process! Keep dialing until you get through!

Call Senator Karen Keiser - (360) 786-7664
Send an Email to Senator Karen Keiser HERE!

2. CALL AND EMAIL THE CHAIR OF THE HOUSE COMMITTEE, Representative Eileen Cody, today and continue to call her for the next 48 hours. Ask her to schedule a hearing for Shayan's Law! Share your personal stories and convey the following message: Autism is a treatable medical condition. Insurance should cover the treatment. Be polite and persistent. Ask her to please schedule the bill for an executive session vote so that it can continue through the legislative process! Keep dialing until you get through!

Call Representative Eileen Cody - (360) 786-7978
Send an Email to Representative Elieen Cody HERE!