Source: Radio New Zealand
Autistic nonspeakers may use various strategies to manage the overload and lessen sensory distress. Unsplash / Naila Conita
Southern Cross Health Insurance says ADHD and autism are once again covered under its policies, after an earlier decision to exclude them.
RNZ reported last month families were blind-sided by the decision, which left them without funding for treatment.
At the time, the insurer said it was not a change in policy, but a “clarification” – as ADHD and autism were considered mental health conditions, they came under the mental health exclusion and were therefore not covered.
But now, after a review of its diagnostic classification system, it told RNZ they were, in fact, classified as neurodevelopmental conditions, not mental health conditions, and accordingly the mental health exclusion did not apply.
Regan Savage, chief sales and marketing officer for Southern Cross Health Insurance, said they undertook a review after feedback from clinicians, members and sector stakeholders highlighted uncertainty about how that November guidance to providers was being interpreted in practice.
“That feedback informed a more detailed review to ensure our guidance is clear, consistent and aligned with both clinical understanding and our policies,” he said.
“We appreciate the constructive engagement with our members and specialists that helped inform this review, and we are currently reviewing any claims that may have been affected.”
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
