What issues have been found at Colorado autism therapy facilities?

Dozens of child abuse complaints, including physical harm and neglect, have been reported at unregulated autism therapy facilities.

How much money was improperly paid to these facilities in Colorado?

The state Medicaid program made at least $78 million in improper payments to these facilities.

What is being done to address the lack of regulation for autism therapy providers in Colorado?

State representatives plan to introduce a bill to license both facilities and providers, establishing rules for training, background checks, and safety.

Home / Health / Autism Therapy Abuse: Colorado Oversight Failures Exposed

Autism Therapy Abuse: Colorado Oversight Failures Exposed

16 Apr

•

Summary

Dozens of child abuse complaints found at unregulated autism therapy facilities.
State Medicaid program made $78 million in improper payments.
Proposed bill aims to license facilities and providers to ensure child safety.

Autism Therapy Abuse: Colorado Oversight Failures Exposed

A recent report from the Colorado Department of Human Services has highlighted significant issues within facilities providing therapy for children with autism. Dozens of complaints detailing child abuse have surfaced, prompting calls for urgent regulation. These revelations follow a federal audit that identified at least $78 million in improper payments made by the state's Medicaid program to these facilities.

Many of these facilities have been criticized for exploiting a lack of regulations to increase revenue. Concerns include unqualified staff, excessive therapy hours, and documented instances of physical harm, restraint, and neglect. Parents have reported turning to child protective services with little recourse, as counties do not currently regulate these centers.