Which States have the Highest Autism Therapy Reimbursement in 2026?
Among the states analyzed for 2026, Arizona is projected to have the highest average Medicaid reimbursement rate for CPT code 97153 (adaptive behavior treatment), followed closely by Maryland.
According to the 2026 projections for Medicaid fee schedules, the rates per unit are:
- Arizona: Projected average rate of $13.50 per unit (despite a 3.6% reduction from 2025).
- Maryland: Projected average rate of $13.50 per unit (reflecting a 1.8% decrease from 2025).
- Utah: Projected average rate of $12.25 per unit (reflecting a 2% decrease from 2025).
While Arizona and Maryland are projected at the same average rate, Arizona historically started from a higher 2025 baseline ($14.00) compared to Maryland ($13.75).
It is important to note that these figures apply specifically to Medicaid. Private insurance reimbursement rates are negotiated between employer health plans and provider networks and typically offer different, often more flexible, rate structures compared to state-legislated Medicaid budgets.
Related FAQs
-
What are Functional Living Skills Goals in Aba Therapy?
Read More »: What are Functional Living Skills Goals in Aba Therapy?In ABA therapy, functional living skills goals aim to build a child’s independence by teaching essential self-care routines. These goals are designed to be practical, helping children navigate their daily lives with increased self-reliance and confidence. To make these objectives…
-
How do You Involve Parents in the Aba Goal-setting Process?
Read More »: How do You Involve Parents in the Aba Goal-setting Process?Involving parents in the Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) goal-setting process is a cornerstone of family-centered care. At Golden Touch ABA, this collaboration ensures that therapy is relevant, transparent, and integrated into the child’s daily life. Parents are involved through the…
-
How do Bcbas Track Progress for Behavioral Goals?
Read More »: How do Bcbas Track Progress for Behavioral Goals?Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) track progress for behavioral goals using a systematic, data-driven approach that emphasizes precision and scientific measurement. This process ensures that interventions are effective and that therapy remains responsive to a child’s evolving needs. Key methods…
-
What are Common Communication Goals for Children in Aba?
Read More »: What are Common Communication Goals for Children in Aba?In Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, communication goals are designed to be specific and measurable, moving from foundational requests to more complex social interactions. Common communication goals include: These goals are developed using the SMART framework, ensuring they are Specific,…
-
How are Smart Goals Used in Aba Therapy Treatment Plans?
Read More »: How are Smart Goals Used in Aba Therapy Treatment Plans?In ABA therapy, SMART goals are used to create a structured and measurable roadmap for a child’s development. This framework ensures that broad therapeutic hopes are transformed into precise, actionable milestones. At Golden Touch ABA, the SMART framework is applied…
