N.D. approved for autism services

BISMARCK (AP) — North Dakota’s Department of Human Services says it has received approval from the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to cover new services for young children with autism spectrum disorders.

Spokeswoman JoAnne Hoesel said families will have access to an evaluation team that can validate their child’s diagnosis and serve as a resource for the family’s local service providers.

The services will be available to up to 30 children during a 12-month period. Children must be between birth and their fifth birthday. They qualify based on diagnosis and income.

Human Services is planning regional informational meetings. The first is Tuesday in Bismarck.

Tags: north dakota, news, autism