Commissioner Kanjian Speaks Out To Support Autism Insurance Coverage

Commissioner Bob Kanjian addresses the members of the Palm Beach County Legislative Delegation in the Flagler Museum.

Commissioner Bob Kanjian addressed the 17 members of the Palm Beach County Legislative Delegation recently at their meeting in the Flagler Museum in the Town of Palm Beach.

The purpose of his presentation was to encourage their support for legislation to be introduced by State Senators Victor Crist and Steven Geller before the State Legislature in Tallahassee.  The legislation is intended to provide care and treatment for autistic children that would be covered by a family's health insurance.  "When a family gets the diagnosis of autism, there is a lack of resources available, the protocols are uncertain and the insurance safety net is replaced with a free fall into the unknown ... just at the time when therapy and services for those with autism are most valuable," Commissioner Kanjian stated.

"It is about turning dire disabilities into great possibilities.  If the financial resources are available immediately, many more of these kids can make it and become productive taxpaying citizens.  Passing this legislation will ultimately save the taxpayers billions of dollars in the future.  It is about being fair, it will guarantee the availability of quality therapists, relieve the angst of parents across the state, and most importantly, allow children to look at their parents and say, 'I love you, Mom and Dad!'"

Commissioner Kanjian emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and treatment as the key to freeing children from a life of being trapped within their own minds to a more fulfilling life full of productivity and greater endeavors.