North Dakota expands services for families impacted by autism spectrum disorder

(Fargo, ND) -- There is good news for North Dakota families impacted by autism spectrum disorder. 

"We have just received approval from the Centers of Medicare and Medicaid to increase our slots on our waiver for autism by 195 slots this year," said Katherine Barchenger, the state's HHS Children's Waiver Administrator.

Barchenger said the agency is also increasing the maximum qualifying age for children who can be served by the state from 15 to 17. 

Newly covered services include remote monitoring, which uses a tracking device to safely support a child who is prone to wandering and "community connector services that help a child build relationships and life skills." 

More information can be found online at hhs.nd.gov.