Final Report of Pennsylvania Autism Census Project
Final Report of Pennsylvania Autism Census Project
[Click here for .pdf version of this alert]
We are pleased to share with you the Pennsylvania Autism Census Project Final Report!
In 2005, BAS commissioned Dr. David Mandell and his team of researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine's Center for Mental Health Policy and Services Research to conduct a census of the number of individuals diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) living in Pennsylvania. An understanding of the number of Pennsylvanians with an ASD and their demographic characteristics (such as where they live) is vital in order to effectively plan for the future.
Findings:
- According to the study, in 2005 there were close to 20,000 Pennsylvanians living with autism. Given trends, we expect that number to have risen to at least 25,000 in 2010.
- The report also illustrates that the number of adults with autism will increase dramatically in the near future, growing by 179% to more than 3,800 in 2010 and to more than 10,000 by 2014.
Please note the report includes county-specific information which we hope will be helpful in effectively planning for the future at both the state and local levels.
What needs to happen?
Although the projected rise in adults with autism is significant, the good news is that Pennsylvania has already developed autism-specific programs and regional resources to begin meeting the growing need. Continued support of these programs and the individuals served by them is vital so that the resources will be available in order to meet this need.
We hope that the results of the census will inform decision-makers at local, regional and state levels and encourage all stakeholder groups to work together to begin discussing the impact it will have on your communities.
For a full copy of the census report, including data by county, visit http://bastraining.tiu11.org
BAS Upcoming Webcasts
Pre-registration is not required. To join the presentation:
1. Visit http://bastraining.acrobat.com/baswebcast/
2. Sign in as a Guest using your first name, association.
Thursday, April 22, 2010 from 10:00 am - 11:30 am
Topic: Welcome and BAS General Initiatives Overview
Thursday, April 22, 2010 from 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Topic: Regional ASERT collaboratives: Regional Resources and Supports
For a sneak preview, please visit page 4 of the attached newsletter.
Adult Program Overview
The Adult Autism Waiver and Adult Community Autism Program (ACAP) are both enrolling participants.
Call 1-866-539-7689 to request an application today!
At-a-Glance:
The Adult Autism Waiver is a traditional HCBS waiver designed to provide long-term services and supports for community living, tailored to the specific needs of adults with an ASD. The Adult Autism Waiver does not include physician services.
The Adult Community Autism Program (ACAP) is not a waiver. It is a managed care program that includes some innovative approaches to service provision. It provides physician, behavioral, and community services through an integrated approach to create a coordinated system of supports.
Updated information including Program Overviews, Eligibility, Application Processes, Services and Provider Networks is now available!
Please view the attached newsletter or visit www.autisminpa.org
BAS Additional Initiatives
BAS Family and Individual Mini-Grants: This opportunity is designed to benefit children and adults with an ASD in Pennsylvania. Applications are now available on www.autisminpa.org with a postmarked deadline of April 16th. Notification of awards will be sent out beginning May 15th on an ongoing basis. Please be sure to read the Frequently Asked Questions before mailing in your application.
3rd Annual Pennsylvania Autism Training Conference (PATC): June 2-4, 2010 in Lancaster, PA. Keynote topics include: Medical/Behavioral Teaming; Customized Employment; and Positive Behavior Support plus 15 breakout sessions! Please see the attached newsletter or visit www.autisminpa.org for more details about this training opportunity.
Registration opens in April: http://www.solutionwhere.com/bastraining/cw/main.asp
ASERT (Autism, Services, Education, Research & Training): FBA and PBS training workshops for professionals are currently open for registration. ASERT will present the findings of the statewide Family Needs Assessment during the Pennsylvania Autism Training Conference. Please see the attached newsletter or visit www.autisminpa.org for more details about ASERT initiatives.
BAS VirtualTrainingCenter (VTC): This comprehensive resource center has been designed to enable professionals and families to easily access trainings, documents, and other resources in one convenient location. Visit http://bastraining.tiu11.org to set up a free account.
An updated BAS OUTREACH PACKET with detailed handouts on the information above is now available by visiting the BAS VTC!
Bureau of Autism Services
Bureau of Autism Services, Office of Developmental Programs
Department of Public Welfare
Room 601 Health & Welfare Bldg | Hbg PA 17120
Phone: 1.866.539.7689| Fax: 717.265.7761
Email: [email protected]
www.autisminpa.org
www.dpw.state.pa.us