Autism Resources

We know that Autism is not a “one size fits all” diagnosis and we do not want to view treatment as a “one size fits all” approach. Magellan offers an array of programs and resources based on best practices for children, adolescents, and transitional aged youth.

As language is shifting from “Autism Awareness” to “Autism Acceptance”, Magellan aims to work with individuals, families/caregivers, professionals, and advocates to embrace Autism inclusion and dismantle barriers this population is faced with. Magellan knows that individuals with Autism and their families may face many challenges. But they are not alone.

Magellan offers a variety of different services based on individualized needs. These level of care services are outlined on page 13 of the Family Navigation Guide for Lehigh/Northampton counties. if you would like more specific information regarding a level of service. Please refer to our provider search tool to search for providers in your area. For a helpful video to locate additional resources and support, please see our video in partnership with the NFL Alumni Association.

In the Lehigh Valley, the Autism Action Committee is a collaborative group comprised of representatives from Magellan, Lehigh and Northampton County Departments of Human Services, Autism services system stakeholders, and family members. Check out this flyer (English version, Spanish version) to learn more about the committee history, meeting information, and how to get involved.

Intensive Behavioral Health Services (IBHS). IBHS support children, youth, and young adults with mental, emotional, and behavioral health needs. There are three categories of service: individual services; ABA; Group services. Evidence-based treatment can be delivered through these services.

Transition to Independence Program (TIP). TIP engages and supports young adults with their future planning. This program offers a lot of flexibility.

Family-based services (FBS). This combines individual and family therapy. It includes crisis support. It also includes case management. It is for children who are at risk for out-of-home placement or children who just left a placement. The family is the focus. It is short term.

Partial hospital program (PHP). PHP is five days a week for several hours per day. It consists of individual, group, and family therapy. There is also a psychiatrist for medication management.

Residential treatment facility (RTF). This is for children with severe mental health symptoms. This is typically used when home and community services have not been successful. The RTF uses individual and group therapy. Family involvement is essential. It involves 24-hour care.

Psychiatric inpatient hospitalization. This provides 24-hour treatment. This is in a hospital setting. It is for those who pose a danger to themselves or to others. It is meant to be short term. The goal is to lessen symptoms.

Psychiatric Rehabilitation (Lehigh and Northampton counties) English Flyer. Spanish Flyer.

The Family Navigation Guides are for caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorders or other developmental delays:

The websites below include statewide initiatives that were designed to support individuals, parents/caregivers, families, and professionals. Resources include information regarding the Autism Waiver Services, ASERT Collaborative, ODP Training & Resource Center, ACT 62 benefits, and E-Learning Modules.

Below are organizations designed to support with advocacy, parent support, support services, and education to individuals and families.

The websites below include resources for teens, adults, and families to promote inclusion as well as employment supports, job development, social/community events, physical/behavioral health support, and Adult Autism Waiver information.

Magellan also has three subject matter experts if you are looking for additional information on the topics below and need further support. Please call Member Services for your county and ask for the following:

Autism Spectrum Disorder – Ask for the Lead Autism Care Manager
Intellectual/Developmental Disability Specialist – Ask for the Senior Care Manager
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) – Ask for the Autism Clinical Care Manager

Act 62 Message for Pennsylvania Families (Autism Services) Notice

In Pennsylvania, your child’s autism-related services may be covered by private health insurance, Medical Assistance (MA) or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) under Pennsylvania’s Autism Insurance Act (ACT 62). ACT 62 is a statewide insurance mandate specific to services provided to children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

The Department of Human Services (DHS), Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID), and Department of State (DOS) are working together to fully implement Act 62. A number of new resources have been developed to provide guidance to families about ACT 62. Visit DHS for Act 62 information including fact sheets, answers to Frequently Asked Questions, updated guidance on how to appeal if your insurance company denies a claim, and contact information for DHS and the PID.

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