Argentine associations warn national autism plan threatens disability coverage

Civil associations in Puerto Madryn, Chubut, have expressed concern regarding the Argentine Ministry of Health’s new national guidelines for addressing Autism Spectrum Disorder (TEA). Critics argue the plan lacks precise regulatory mechanisms and contains ambiguous terminology that could jeopardize the Unique Disability Certificate (CUD).

Maricel Gauna, president of the association Aprende a volar, warned that the use of vague diagnostic criteria might lead authorities to revoke the CUD from individuals with lower support requirements. This would force families to cover the costs of essential therapies, such as psychological consultations and therapeutic assistants, privately, which is often economically unfeasible.

Additionally, the plan has been criticized for failing to address the needs of the adult population, as public policies frequently focus exclusively on childhood interventions, leaving those over 18 without adequate support or infrastructure.