Acronyms Used in Special Ed and the Autism World

Whether you are the parent of a newly diagnosed child or an old timer, it can be helpful to have a refresher course on the acronyms widely used to navigate this world.  This article clearly lists and describes each acronym.

Back to School

It seems every September has been a struggle for us, and this year is no exception.  As my child grows, I learn about more and more organizations.  Currently, I'm again looking for medical coverage for my son.  He had a hospitalization stay, and had trouble finding aftercare.  He was discharged with follow up care at Manchester Memorial Hospital, or so I thought.  The therapist at IOL (Institute of Living), said it was all set, but talking to the PHP program (partial hospital program) at Manchester, I found out today he was just referred.  So now I'm hoping he gets into this program.  If not, he will have no one to follow his medication.  The psychiatrist that was seeing him prior, won't see him because you can't go from a hospital stay back to regular counseling.  It is a step down process.  I have applied for ICAPPS, which is an in home program that provides therapy, behaviorists, and also prescribes medication.  The only problem is that it has a month and a half to two month waiting list.  The hospital new this...but the insurance was putting pressure to discharge him.  He no longer required that high of a level of care.   

By the way, Nautchaug, aka the Joshua Center, has done the PHP program with my son previously, but because he's been there several times, said he wouldn't be a good fit...I think this is because his outburst caused some property damage-nothing catastrophic, but he was definitely challenging.  Of course, I thought that's what they were there for-but what do I know.? 

So, here I am again, and it has happened several times, that my son has been basically dumped to fend for himself, except fo his mom and her determination.  If he doesn't get into the Manchester program, yo can bet I'll be on the phone with the Child Advocate since the hosptial knowingly discharge him with out real follow up care.