The Wonderful World of Medicaid

Just the mention of the word Medicaid usually causes groans and sighs of exasperation. It’s a world of acronyms and complicated processes with lengthy wait times. For folks who rely on this form of health coverage for their families, it’s a frustration known all too well. Finding a provider that will not only work with them, but for them, is a breath of fresh air. Cornerstone Autism Center is a provider.

As of February 6, 2016, ABA therapy is now a covered benefit with all Indiana Health Coverage Programs for members 20 years of age and younger. This is music to the ears of all those families with children on the autism spectrum who have previously been unable to access this treatment for their child. There is an important distinction to be understood—while ABA is now a covered benefit under this new ruling, it does not necessarily always equate to a full authorization for services. The child’s benefit package may have certain limitations already established. How is a parent to know? The staff in the insurance department at Cornerstone will identify which benefit package your child has (as long as you keep us updated with any changes) and we will go the extra mile to make sure we are receiving the maximum benefits allowed for your child and their ABA therapy. A parent need only worry about giving the most current insurance information to Cornerstone and we will take it from there. If we have questions, we will contact you, work with you to solve any issues, and assure you that your child’s treatment is a high priority.

Cornerstone’s insurance experts will help you navigate through the wonderful world of Medicaid. We will answer questions, such as “Does my child receive Medicaid benefits?” “Will Cornerstone secure an authorization for treatment for my child?” “Can I call Cornerstone with my Medicaid questions, instead of calling Medicaid?” The answer to all three of those questions, is a resounding YES! If you have questions, we have answers—and if we don’t, we will go out of our way to find someone who does. We feel it is our job to make the world of insurance as easy as possible for the parents who entrust their child’s treatment to Cornerstone.

As with any insurance coverage, it is imperative that parents notify us of any changes in their policies. In turn, it is our job to let families know of any changes in coverage that may result. It takes everyone being on the same page to make sure that things are processed smoothly and without issue. Cornerstone Autism Center was a pioneer, and the first ABA provider in the greater Indianapolis area to accept Medicaid. By being the first, we opened the door to many families who otherwise were not being served, and showed other providers that it really is possible to serve this community. Cornerstone has been proudly doing so since 2011.

In the future, I will provide families with information on any Medicaid, keeping you updated on any or all changes that are happening that may affect you. If at any point in time you need to ask questions regarding your coverage, please do not hesitate to call me. My line is always open, and I will do my best to answer any of your questions. Just know that Cornerstone Autism Center and the insurance staff is here to help families through a crazy, confusing process and to make it as smooth and easy as we possibly can!

Last updated by Morgan McClellan at February 22, 2016.