Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Manual Updates (IB 25-9)

Date: 03/19/25

Louisiana Healthcare Connections is sharing updates to the Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Manual (IB 25-9).External Link

The updates made by the Louisiana Department of Health has expanded the the definition of qualified health care professionals (QHCP) to allow pediatricians screening with the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised (MCHATR/F), and clinical judgment, to make an autism diagnosis and complete a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation.

For children who receive a high-risk score of greater than or equal to 8 on the MCHAT-R/F, pediatricians can independently make a diagnosis of autism (if their clinical judgment concurs with the score). For children who receive a moderate risk score of 3 to 7 on the MCHAT-R/F, pediatricians can complete the MCHAT-R/F follow-up interview. Based on their confidence in their clinical judgment, the pediatrician can either independently make a diagnosis of autism or refer to a subspecialist for a diagnostic evaluation. Subspecialists are listed in the ABA Manual.

LDH has also published new Coordination of Care requirements. The primary care provider’s (PCP) name and contact information must appear on all behavior treatment plans and the PCP shall be copied on all behavior treatment plans. This can be accomplished through sharing of electronic health records.

All above changes have been updated in the ABA ManualExternal Link (pdf).

Louisiana Healthcare Connections will update our systems within 30 days of notification and claims will be automatically recycled.

Questions regarding these changes should be directed to Crystal Faison at Crystal.Faison@la.gov or at 225-342-8233