UM Associate Professor, Ann Garfinkle Publishes Report On Children’s Autism Waiver Program

University of Montana Associate Professor Ann Garfinkle recently published a report documenting the results of the first 43 children to complete an intensive early-intervention autism program that launched in 2009.

The Montana’s Children’s Autism Waiver Report documents positive outcomes in children who recently completed the intensive three-year program. According the report, the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services’ program that provides early intervention to children age 15 months to 5 years old with autism is "on par with published results from the best national programs" and has been "incredibly successful."

To determine program effectiveness, the report focused on three common measures, including if the child still exhibits symptoms that would result in an Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis, if the child is able to receive general education services and if the child has full, moderate or limited community access.

"The data provided in this report is so encouraging," said DPHHS Director Richard Opper. "It clearly shows that early intervention works.

Full Story: http://news.umt.edu/2013/02/020613garf.aspx