Who should pay for intensive behavioural intervention in autism? A parent's view

Abstract

The evidence that early intensive behavioural intervention (IBI) is effective for young children with autism has persuaded parents worldwide to finance and advocate for IBI. Intensive behavioural intervention uses applied behavioural analysis to address the deficits of autism with an individualized and systematic approach. Communication, social, cognitive and adaptive gains are seen in the majority of children; a sizeable minority can catch up to near normal functioning, under ideal conditions. However there is not universal acceptance amongst professionals that IBI is the most proven intervention. What level of evidence is required for Australian states to provide adequate public funds for IBI?