Variety of autism resources available in Alamogordo

Oct. 30--According to the US Census 2013, there are an estimated 5,853 children in the state of New Mexico who under the age of 18 and diagnosed with Autism Spectrum. Applied Behavior Analysis is recognized as a the only evidence-based treatment of autism. It is now a state-mandated benefit covered by many of New Mexico's leading health plans, including the state Medicaid Program.

While there are several reputable ABA provider organizations throughout the state, the severe shortage of certified providers, coupled with New Mexico's rural landscape, has created significant barriers for families seeking treatment.

In 2013, there were only 26 certified behavior analysts statewide. The Behavior Analyst Certification Board indicates that the average caseload for one behavior analyst supervising focused treatment is 16-24 patients. This leaves an estimated 5229 individuals under the age of 18 without access to this medically necessary treatment.

In an effort to enhance access and build capacity in New Mexico's rural communities, provider organizations like Behavior Change Institute are relying on advanced technology to deliver treatment via a researched-based telemedicine model.

Under this model, local Behavior Technicians are hired and trained to implement intensive 1:1 treatment in family homes, schools, and community-based settings.

Where families do not have access to a Certified Behavior Analyst, the agency brings in clinical expertise from more highly populated areas and the local behavior technicians are supervised remotely, using real-time secured video streams.

To further facilitate a comprehensive continuum of care system for families, clients' treatment records are stored on a HIPAA compliant portal to make records easily accessible to ancillary providers on their child's treatment team.

Using this model, provider organizations have successfully reached families in even the most remote locations, including Jordan Griffin of Alamogordo. Jordan was diagnosed with autism four years ago when the closest provider was nearly 2-hours away, which madeit nearly impossible for him to have access to the required in-home treatment.

At the time, Jordan was exhibiting significant speech delays and prolonged tantrum behavior. Jordan's behavior was so severe that his day-care services were terminated and his mother had to leave her job to care for him.

After learning about the difficulty Jordan faced in accessing treatment, Dr. Joy Pollard of Alamogordo developed a service delivery model using a hybrid of the traditional telemedicine approach.

Under this model, a local behavior technician was hired, trained, and supervised by a remote behavior analyst and Jordan began receiving in-home therapy five days a week for two to three hours at a time.

Over the course of his two-year treatment term, Jordan showed marked improvement in language and social skills that led to a significant reduction in challenging behavior.

Parents Alex and Christan proudly report that Jordan is now in the first grade and is 100 percent included in a general education setting where he receives minimal additional supports or accommodations.

The family refers to the telemedicine model as a "second chance for families", especially those residing in rural and underserved communities.

To learn more about resources available to individuals with autism spectrum disorder, please contact Joy Pollard, Ph.D., BCBA-D, and President Elect of the New Mexico Association for Behavior Analysis, by emailing jpollard@behaviorchangeinstitute.com.

___

(c)2014 the Alamogordo Daily News (Alamogordo, N.M.)

Visit the Alamogordo Daily News (Alamogordo, N.M.) at www.alamogordonews.com

Distributed by MCT Information Services