Bill > SB1566

This bill modifies requirements for applied behavior analysis (ABA) treatment for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) under the state Medicaid program. It specifies that a definitive diagnosis of ASD by certain licensed healthcare providers, such as a pediatric neurologist, developmental pediatrician, psychologist, psychiatrist, or an interdisciplinary team, is required for medical necessity. The bill prohibits the state Medicaid program from imposing a blanket policy requiring all members receiving ABA services to be re-diagnosed or undergo new assessments if they have already been diagnosed by an approved provider, unless there's a significant change in their condition. It also outlines requirements for ABA service providers, allowing registered behavior technicians and assistant behavior analysts to provide services in person, while board-certified behavior analysts (BCBAs) can use telehealth for services and supervision, with flexibility regarding their location as long as they are licensed in Oklahoma or their state of residence. ABA is defined as the design and implementation of environmental modifications to improve socially significant human behavior, and ASD is defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. This act will become effective on November 1, 2026.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb1566&Session=2600