The Ford government’s plan to overhaul the Ontario autism program has sparked furious debate, led to angry parent protests and triggered calls for the minister behind the revamp to resign.It has also left much confusion around an often controversial subject.Lisa MacLeod, minister of children, community and social services, said sweeping changes are necessary to clear the therapy wait list of 23,000 kids within 18 months and make the program fiscally sustainable. “Today, almost three out of every four children who require autism supports continue to be stranded on wait lists,” she told reporters at a Feb. 6 news conference in Toronto. “We are introducing reforms to provide them with the fairness and equality they deserve.”The Star consulted experts, advocates and government officials and websites to answer some questions about autism and what lies ahead for Ontario families.What is autism?Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental disability that affects communication and social interaction and may include repetitive behaviours and restricted interests. While autism affects every child differently and has no cure, symptoms, abilities and experiences can improve over time with the help of evidence-based therapies and interventions.How is it diagnosed?Five regional centres across Ontario, including Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital in Toronto, have behaviour analysts who are specially trained to diagnose children from about age 2. Evidence shows that when children start behavioural intervention between ages 2 and 5, they gain improvements in cognitive and language development, are better prepared for school and have better long-term outcomes in adulthood, the ministry notes.There are currently 2,400 children waiting — many for up to two years — for a publicly funded diagnosis from one of the five diagnostic hubs. Families unwilling to wait can pay for a diagnosis from a trained professional.What ...
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