Autism has often been viewed through a medical, deficit‑focused lens that shapes how services like applied behavior analysis (ABA) are defined and delivered. Current trends in autism care are shifting toward a neurodiversity-affirming approach, which offers a broader way of thinking and focuses on an individual’s strengths and interests and establishment of a supportive environment in which they can grow and develop.

While traditional biomedical models of care remain important for identifying symptoms, reducing impairments, and addressing significant clinical needs, a neurodiversity-affirming approach helps respect an individual’s dignity, independence, and autonomy.

In a recent article published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Darren J. Sush, PsyD, BCBA-D, Head of Autism and Psychology at Evernorth® Behavioral Health, and his colleagues advocate for integrating a neurodiversity perspective into autism care, ABA, and medical necessity definitions as well as provide strategies for neurodiversity-affirming care.

What is a neurodiversity perspective and why it matters

A neurodiversity perspective recognizes neurological differences, such as autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, dyslexia, and Tourette syndrome, as natural variations in how people think, learn, and experience the world.

This perspective helps providers balance clinical support with respect for individuality, inclusion, and quality of life. It is relevant across health care disciplines and can strengthen engagement, improve collaboration with families, and reduce stigma.

Our commitment

We are committed to supporting you in the delivery of respectful, individualized treatment for the diverse patients you care for. In May 2026, we will update our Intensive Behavioral Interventions (EN0499) and Autism Spectrum Disorders/Pervasive Developmental Disorders: Assessment and Treatment (0447) coverage policies to be more inclusive of neurodiversity‑affirming principles.

In addition, your patients and their families have access to clinical support:

• Patients can self-refer or be referred by a provider for autism clinical support. Our Autism web page outlines programs, resources, and information that can help provide support and guidance.
• Patients can call the phone number on the back of their ID card to speak with a licensed behavioral clinician 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Interested in hearing more?

Listen to the Exploring Neurodiversity podcast with Dr. Stuart Lustig, MD, MPH, National Medical Executive of Behavioral Health Strategy and Product Design at Cigna Healthcare®.