Insurance Coverage in Colorado
Colorado has a mental health parity law, which requires health insurance coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of biologically based mental illnesses. Autism is not included in the definition of mental illnesses as defined in the statute. (CO Rev Stat §10-16-104.3) A separate provision for autism states “any sickness or accident insurance policy that provides coverage for disabilities due to sickness shall also provide coverage for autism as with any accident or sickness, other than mental illness.” (CO Rev Stat §10-16-104.5).

Children with Autism Colorado Medicaid Waiver
Colorado offers a home and community-based services waiver for children ages 5 years old or younger with autism. In order to be eligible, a child must have received a diagnosis of autism by a licensed physician and be younger than six years old. Behavioral therapy services are covered at a maximum of $25,000 per year for 3 years or until the child’s sixth birthday. Only 75 children can be enrolled at any time. http://www.chcpf.state.co.us/HCPF/Web/ChildrenwithAutismWaiver04-08.pdf