AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio and Zest Pediatric Network Partner to Reduce Autism Diagnosis Wait Times Across Ohio

Receiving an autism assessment, and if needed being referred for treatment, is now faster and easier than before for AmeriHealth Caritas OhioOpens a new windowmembers.

The Medicaid health plan is teaming up with northeast Ohio's Zest Pediatric NetworkOpens a new windowto provide telehealth autism evaluations from specially trained pediatricians using standardized assessment tools. This will allow AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio members throughout the state to get appointments within weeks instead of months and complete the assessments from the comfort of their own homes, avoiding multiple hours-long trips. The entire process can be accomplished over a few video sessions lasting a total of two to three hours.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 3% of Ohio children have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorderOpens a new window(ASD) yet Ohio children covered by Medicaid have historically struggled to access ASD assessment and treatmentOpens a new window.

"Ohio families have frequently had to wait many months and travel long distances for their child to receive an autism evaluation and diagnosis," said AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio Market Chief Medical Officer Stacey Ishman, M.D. "This project with Zest will help address a critical health care need in the state."

"Our Zest pediatricians have taken special training in order to provide these services," said Zest President Andrew Hertz, M.D. "The doctors are thrilled to provide more timely autism evaluations. It is well known that the sooner a child gets a diagnosis, and receives appropriate treatment, the better their outcomes. We love being able to get parents the timely answers they deserve and provide them with peace of mind."

AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio members interested in obtaining an ASD assessment from Zest can request an appointment through the Zest websiteOpens a new windowor by calling 1-216-238-3737.