May 29, 2024 | For Immediate Release
HHS Releases FY 2019-2023 Report to Congress on Federal Autism Activities
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has released the FY 2019-2023 Report to Congress on Activities Related to Autism Spectrum Disorder and Other Developmental Disabilities Under the Autism Collaboration, Accountability, Research, Education, and Support Act (Autism CARES Act) of 2019. This comprehensive report provides updates on progress made in implementing the provisions of the Autism CARES Act of 2019, including progress made by federal departments and agencies in implementing the recommendations of the IACC Strategic Plan, as well as other key information required by the Act, including:
- Incidence and prevalence of autism
- Average age of autism diagnosis
- Average age of intervention
- Average time between initial screening, diagnosis, and intervention
- Effectiveness and outcomes of existing and new interventions
- Home and community-based services (HCBS) for autistic individuals
The report also includes updates on federal coordination of autism efforts by the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC) and the HHS National Autism Coordinator, including through the Federal Interagency Workgroup on Autism (FIWA), as well as government-wide diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility initiatives relevant to individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities.
Over 25 federal departments, agencies, divisions, and offices contributed to this report. All of these departments and agencies are conducting research and services activities related to children and/or adults on the autism spectrum. This includes descriptions of federal programs on biomedical and services research, education, health, employment, housing, disability benefits, justice, and disability services. This report provides valuable information to Congress on the progress made in addressing the needs of the autism community, including in areas such as improving screening and diagnosis; increasing the availability and accessibility of evidence-based interventions, supports, and services for autistic individuals across the spectrum; research to promote health across the lifespan; and increasing equity and reducing disparities for the autism community. It also highlights the importance of continued coordination and collaboration across federal agencies in promoting the health and well-being of autistic people and their families.
The FY 2019-2023 HHS Report to Congress on Activities Related to Autism Spectrum Disorder and Other Developmental Disabilities was prepared by the HHS National Autism Coordinator and the Office of National Autism Coordination (ONAC) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), on behalf of the Office of the HHS Secretary, with contributions from multiple federal departments and agencies.
