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Services for children with autism, related conditions focus of Bemidji meeting

The Pilot-Independent - 11/11/2017

The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) will host the next in a series of public meetings on services available through Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare for children, youth and young adults under age 21 with autism spectrum disorder and related conditions.

Meetings for parents, providers, potential providers and staff of county, tribal or managed care organizations are set for Nov, 20, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Northwest Indian Community Development Center, 1819 Bemidji Ave. N., Bemidji

Another meeting will be held Dec. 4, 2-4 p.m. at the Marshall Public Library, 201 C. St., Marshall.

A meeting specifically for parents is set for Nov. 29, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., at the North Regional Library, 1315 Lowry Ave. N., Minneapolis.

"It's important that families are aware of Minnesota's autism benefit, which is designed to improve social interaction, communication and behavioral regulation skills at a critical time in a child's development," said Human Services Commissioner Emily Piper. "The goal of Early Intensive Developmental and Behavioral Intervention services (EIDBI) is to promote fuller participation by children in their family, schools and community life. Services are based on the family's values and culture and include training and support for the family."

The meetings are designed for participants to ask questions and get information about the EIDBI benefit and services and supports for autism spectrum disorder and related conditions in general, as well as to inform DHS staff about challenges and successes related to accessing services.

Anyone who needs a reasonable accommodation or language assistance to participate in these meetings should email ASD.DHS@state.mn.us as soon as possible and list the type of accommodation needed.