How have Aba Medicaid Rates Changed in 2026?
For 2026, several state Medicaid programs are projecting modest reductions in reimbursement rates for ABA therapy, specifically for CPT code 97153 (adaptive behavior treatment by a technician). These adjustments are driven by state budget cycles, legislative actions, and cost-containment measures rather than changes in the clinical value of the services.
The projected changes for key service areas include:
- Arizona: A projected 3.6% reduction in the average Medicaid rate, decreasing from approximately $14.00 per unit in 2025 to $13.50 per unit in 2026.
- Utah: A projected 2% decrease, moving from $12.50 per unit in 2025 to $12.25 per unit in 2026.
- Maryland: A projected 1.8% decrease, shifting from $13.75 per unit in 2025 to $13.50 per unit in 2026.
While these public payer rates are shifting, private insurance rates typically remain more stable for the duration of a plan year, though they are subject to individual network contract negotiations. Families are encouraged to perform insurance verification to understand how these updates impact their specific out-of-pocket costs and access to care.
Related FAQs
-
What does an Aba Therapist Do?
Read More »: What does an Aba Therapist Do?An ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapist works primarily with children with autism to build essential life skills and reduce problematic behaviors. Their work is categorized into two main roles with distinct responsibilities: Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) Known as the therapists…
-
How do I Become an Aba Therapist?
Read More »: How do I Become an Aba Therapist?Becoming an ABA therapist involves choosing a specific career path based on your educational background and the level of responsibility you wish to assume. According to Golden Touch ABA, there are two primary pathways: Registered Behavior Technician (RBT): This is…
-
What is the Average Aba Therapist Salary in the Us?
Read More »: What is the Average Aba Therapist Salary in the Us?The average salary for an ABA therapist in the United States varies significantly based on the specific role, level of certification, and experience. According to industry benchmarks from AppliedBehaviorAnalysisEdu.org, salary expectations generally fall into the following categories: Registered Behavior Technicians…
-
How does Family Input Affect Aba Treatment Planning?
Read More »: How does Family Input Affect Aba Treatment Planning?Family input is a foundational element of ABA treatment planning at Golden Touch ABA Therapy, ensuring that care is personalized and fits seamlessly into daily life. This collaborative process begins during the initial assessment phase, where Board Certified Behavior Analysts…
-
Who Develops Aba Treatment Plans for Children?
Read More »: Who Develops Aba Treatment Plans for Children?The development of an ABA treatment plan is a collaborative, data-driven process led by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). These professionals are responsible for conducting initial assessments, such as Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA), and gathering baseline data to understand…
