Updated: 10/10/2013 11:38 PM Created: 10/10/2013 6:29 AM WHEC.com By: Lia Lando
In our exclusive series, New York State Exposed, we're tackling tough issues that affect your life, family and money. Right now, thousands of families in our community are impacted by autism. That's a challenge in itself. But some claim they're facing another battle when it comes to medical treatment because of how New York State funds programs for children with autism. Some experts say it is costing the taxpayer more in the long run.
Kids diagnosed with autism can and often do have a very bright future, but not without a lot of work. They need special services, treatment and training as early in life as possible and all the way into adulthood. But if they don't get what they need, they end up costing taxpayers millions of dollars and families a whole lot more than just money.
The Kerr family has been forced to take what many would consider an extreme measure. Their oldest daughter has autism and with each passing year, it seems her behavior gets worse. So they recently decided to sell their house in Victor where they've been living as a family for more than a decade and buy two homes in Fairport to separate their daughters.
Dee Kerr said," The episodes are unpredictable. They are very explosive and can be very violent. We knew we had one of two choices, either separate the children or put Sam in an institution and that was not going to happen on our watch.
Not on their watch because they say there are limited places for kids like Sam to go and they say the facilities that are available, don't have the proper safe trained to help kids with autism.
The Kerr's say they are fortunate to have the financial means to take control of their daughter's treatment, but they recognize not everyone does.
Dan Kerr said, It is a lot of money. There was a lapse in our insurance that lasted almost a month and Sam was on medication, so it came out of our pocket. It was a $700 dollar medication for just one of her meds. What does a family do? We're blessed that we can accommodate that."
And for those who can't pay, it's costing the taxpayer.
The Autism Society estimates the United States is facing almost $90 billion annually in costs for autism, it says that can be reduced by two thirds with early diagnosis and intervention. But it says if we don't act the annual cost could reach as much as $400 billion in ten years.
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New York State Exposed: Autism programs losing out?