Understanding the Arkansas Autism Waiver
The Arkansas Autism Waiver is a Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services program that provides Intensive Early Intervention services using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for young children with autism. The goal of the program is to help children build communication, social, and daily living skills through intensive behavioral therapy while remaining in their homes and communities.
Because the program has a limited number of available slots, many families may spend time on a waiting list before services begin.
Quick Summary
- The Arkansas Autism Waiver provides intensive ABA therapy for young children with autism
- Services focus on early intervention and skill development
- Children must meet a level of care criteria
- The program has limited openings and waiting lists
On this page
What Is the Arkansas Autism Waiver?
The Arkansas Autism Waiver is a Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver administered through the Arkansas Department of Human Services Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS).
The program provides Intensive Early Intervention (IEI) services using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to help young children with autism develop important skills in communication, learning, and daily living.
These services are designed to help children make meaningful developmental progress while continuing to live at home with their families rather than requiring institutional care.
Who Qualifies?
To qualify for the Arkansas Autism Waiver, a child must generally:
- Have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Be within the eligible age range for the program
- Demonstrate a need for intensive behavioral intervention services
A full evaluation and eligibility determination are completed through Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS).
Because waiver slots are limited, eligible children may still be placed on a waiting list until services become available.
What Services Are Provided?
The Autism Waiver focuses primarily on Intensive Early Intervention using ABA.
Services may include:
- Intensive Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy
- Individualized treatment planning and behavioral programming
- Parent training and support
- Ongoing supervision and program monitoring
The number of therapy hours and services provided are determined based on the child’s individualized service plan.
How to Apply for the Arkansas Autism Waiver
Families interested in the Arkansas Autism Waiver typically begin the process through the Arkansas Department of Human Services Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS).
The application process generally includes the following steps:
- Obtain a formal autism diagnosis from qualified professionals. In Arkansas, diagnosis typically requires evaluations from two of the following three providers: a physician, psychologist, or speech-language pathologist.
- Contact Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS) to request information about the Autism Waiver and begin the eligibility process.
- Complete required evaluations and documentation to determine whether the child meets the medical and level-of-care criteria.
- Be placed on the waiver waiting list if a slot is not immediately available.
Once a waiver slot becomes available, families will work with DDS to develop an individualized service plan for their child.
Waiting Lists and Availability
The Arkansas Autism Waiver has a limited number of available slots statewide.
Because of this, families often experience waiting periods before services begin.
While waiting for a waiver opening, many families pursue other ways to access therapy, such as:
- Private health insurance coverage for ABA
- Medicaid through TEFRA eligibility
- School-based therapy services
- Outpatient therapy programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Autism Waiver the only way to get ABA therapy in Arkansas?
No. Many children receive ABA therapy through private insurance, Medicaid programs such as TEFRA, or other therapy providers while waiting for a waiver slot.
Why is there a waiting list for the Autism Waiver?
The waiver program has a limited number of funded openings statewide, which means families may wait until a slot becomes available. It is also important to note that there is currently a shortage of BCBAs in the state of Arkansas.
Who manages the Autism Waiver program?
The program is administered through the Arkansas Department of Human Services Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS).
How do I get my child evaluated for autism?
In Arkansas, a formal autism diagnosis typically requires evaluations from two of the following three professionals:
- A physician (such as a pediatrician, neurologist, or developmental pediatrician)
- A licensed psychologist
- A speech-language pathologist
These evaluations help confirm that a child meets the criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder and identify areas where support or therapy may be needed.
Families often begin by speaking with their child’s pediatrician, who can help coordinate referrals for the necessary evaluations.
Once a diagnosis is confirmed, families may be able to access services such as ABA therapy, school supports, Medicaid programs like TEFRA, or other developmental services.
Do I need an autism diagnosis before applying for the Autism Waiver?
Yes. The Autism Waiver requires a formal autism diagnosis and supporting evaluations before a child can be considered for eligibility.
Helpful Resources
Families exploring Autism Wavier may also find these resources helpful.
Related programs on Real Life Resources
- Funding Sources Explained
- ARHIPP – Helps families pay for private insurance premiums
- TEFRA- Medicaid coverage based on a child’s medical needs rather than family income.
- What Is ABA Therapy?-A simple explanation of Applied Behavior Analysis and how it helps children learn new skills.
- Choosing an ABA Provider-Key questions to ask when selecting an ABA therapy provider.
Official information and applications
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