I wanted to take a moment to share a critical issue that is impacting children with Autism and their families here in Florida. As a provider of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, we have seen firsthand the profound effect ABA has on the lives of children and their families. ABA is a medically necessary, evidence-based treatment that empowers children to achieve greater independence, improve communication, and reduce challenging behaviors. However, upcoming changes to Medicaid funding for ABA therapy, set to take effect on February 1, 2025, are creating significant barriers to continued access to this vital care.

The proposed changes will require providers to bill Managed Medical Assistance (MMA) plans directly, rather than through the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA). Unfortunately, the credentialing process with MMA plans has been riddled with delays, with many applications being rejected due to claims of "adequate networks," even though these assessments do not reflect the reality of service demand. If providers are not credentialed and granted access to the MMA billing systems, they will be unable to bill for services, leading to the cessation of therapy for countless families.

This disruption will inevitably lead to regression in the development and emotional well-being of children who have worked tirelessly for months, or even years, to achieve the progress they’ve made. The proposed "90 days of continuity of care" is simply not enough to resolve these issues, and providers will not be able to deliver services without access to the necessary billing portals.

We are asking for your support in urging immediate action to:

• Expedite the credentialing process for all ABA providers with MMA plans.
• Ensure immediate access to MMA billing portals for providers. 
• Extend the continuity of care period until all credentialing and billing issues are resolved.
•  Reassess the adequacy of provider networks to accurately reflect the demand for ABA services across the state.                      

Children and families who rely on ABA therapy depend on Medicaid to uphold its ethical and legal obligation to provide uninterrupted, medically necessary care. Without swift intervention, the consequences for thousands of children in Florida will be devastating.

We are committed to working collaboratively with the state, the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA), and other stakeholders to ensure that every child receives the care they need and deserve.

Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.

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Together, we have the ability to make these officials listen, to demand better, and to ensure that every child has the support they need to succeed.

Every petition signed, every email sent to lawmakers, every phone call made to local government officials—these actions build momentum. It’s a ripple effect that can push for real policy change, opening the doors to the resources that can transform children’s lives.

Use your voice to raise awareness. Share the petition on social media, talk to friends and family, and ask them to join the cause by signing this petition.

Thank you