Autism Advocate Areva Martin Talks About Free Camp For Special Needs Children

STUDIO CITY (CBS) — Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and affects a person's ability to communicate and interact with others.

Autism Advocate Areva Martin returned to KCAL9 Tuesday to talk about Autism Insurance and a free day camp for special needs children.

Martin testified last week in Sacramento for the Senate Select Committee on Autism Insurance Hearing.

While the California Senate Select Committee on Autism was examining the coverage problems, the Department of Managed Health Care reached a settlement with Blue Shield and Anthem Blue Cross to begin covering ABA (Applied Behavioral Analysis) with a licensed provider. In some cases, there could be retroactive reimbursement for certain out-of-pocket expenses.

ABA is an essential treatment that helps autistic children learn to live happier, more productive lives but to date has not been considered a medical necessity by insurance companies, but rather falls within "education".

As co-founder of the non-profit organization, The Special Needs Network, Martin is pleased to announce that 200 children (60% with special needs and 40% typically developing siblings and peers) will receive one month of free summer camp services at Camp JPAC beginning August 1, 2011.

Campers will participate in recreational programs including dance, theatre, music, arts and crafts, sports and other activities, visit local attractions, enjoy free lunch, snakes, and field trips and have special weekly guest presenters.

For more information, visit Special Needs Network.