1 in 36 kids are diagnosed with ASD

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder caused by differences in the brain. People living with ASD may have restricted interests and repeated behaviors. They may also have their own ways of learning, moving, or focusing. Often, people living with ASD have problems with communicating and engaging with others.

What Causes ASD?

Risk factors may include:

  • A sibling with autism.
  • Older parents.
  • Certain genes, such as Down syndrome, fragile X, and Rett syndrome.
  • Very low birth weight, problems during birth, or extreme prematurity.

ASD can range from mild to severe. The type of symptoms a person has and how severe they are may vary. Some kids may not be able to do actions without a lot of help from parents or caregivers. Others may learn social and verbal skills and can go to college and work. Finding and treating ASD early has helped many people lead full lives.

Developmental Screenings for Early Diagnosis & Support

Signs of autism often show by age 2 or 3, or sooner. Make sure to take your child to routine well-child visits where their doctor can do a developmental test. This test helps to find out if your child needs more support. If it is needed, the extra support will help your child be as healthy as they can be.

You can earn a $50 gift card by taking your child to their first developmental test! Developmental tests are often done at 9 months, 18 months, and 30 months. Learn more at SFHP Health Rewards.

SFHP Support for ASD

With SFHP, you can get support if you or your family member is diagnosed with ASD.

These benefits include:

  • Behavioral health treatment such as applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy to help certain skills.
  • Speech and language therapy to help with communication.
  • Occupational therapy to help build skills for daily living and joining activities.
  • Physical therapy to build motor skills and help issues with balance and muscle strength.
  • Medication to treat symptoms tied to ASD, such as anxiety, trouble with focus, or having lots of energy.
  • Transportation to health visits.

Talk with your primary care provider (PCP) if you would like these services for you or a family member. Learn more at Behavioral and Mental Health Services or call SFHP Customer Service at:

  • Toll-free: 1(800) 288-5555
  • Local: 1(415) 547-7800
  • TTY: 1(888) 883-7347

Phone Hours: Monday through Friday 8:30am to 5:30pm

More Help from SFHP

  • Customer Service: Our team can answer your questions about benefits and health services. Call 1(415) 547-7800, 1(800) 288-5555 (toll-free) or 1(415) 547-7830 TTY. Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5:30pm.
  • Interpreter Services: You can get an interpreter in-person or by phone for your health visits. When you make an appointment, ask for an interpreter at the same time.
  • Need a Ride? SFHP can help you get transportation to any medical appointment covered by Medi-Cal. Ask your provider or call Customer Service.
  • Interested in Medi-Cal Benefits? See if you or your family can get Medi-Cal through SFHP.

Learn more about your covered Medi-Cal benefits and services.