Iowa Public Television

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  Program: The Iowa Journal #227
  Broadcast Date: May. 14, 2009
  

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Autism affects one in every 150 children in the United States according to the Centers for Disease Control. The cause of this neurobiological disorder is unclear and treatment options are widely debated. There is no known cure.

Financing research for solutions to this medical mystery, and support for those afflicted, costs the nation more than $35 billion per year.

Iowa is among the majority of states examining legislation that could help pay health care costs for autistic children. What are the needs of families in Iowa and how can the state best meet those needs?

The Iowa Journal video segment features the McTaggart family from Ankeny. Two of the McTaggart's three children have autism. The McTaggarts are among the increasing number of Iowa families struggling to navigate a system of care that has not kept pace with the escalating population of children in need.

In the studio, sharing their insights on autism are Former Lieutenant Governor Sally Pederson and Dr. Ethel Faust, M.D.

And, the news analysis segment features Radio Iowa news director Kay Henderson, who shares insights on Governor Culver's State level economic stimulus activity, the closing of 22 Chrysler dealerships in Iowa, and possible future casino expansion. Host is Paul Yeager.

Documents:

• Transcript (RTF)

• autism
• children
• economy
• education
• families
• health
• health care
• Iowa
• schools
• teachers

Post Date: May 15, 2009