State guide

Maryland

Programs, dollars, and people that serve autism families in Maryland. Federal protections always apply on top of what you see here.

Maryland overview

Maryland's Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) manages Medicaid waiver services — the Community Pathways Waiver and Family Supports Waiver are the two main programs. Apply through DDA as early as possible. For early intervention, contact Maryland Infants and Toddlers Program. The Parents' Place of Maryland (PPMD) is the state's PTI center, offering free IEP and special education support. The Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education (MCIE) advocates for inclusive school placements. Kennedy Krieger Institute in Baltimore is one of the premier autism evaluation and treatment centers nationally.

Verify program names, URLs, and eligibility on official .gov sites — these change.

⏰ Act now — Medicaid waiver waitlist

DDA Community Pathways Waiver (DDA/MDH)

Typical wait: 3–10 years

Apply through Maryland's Developmental Disabilities Administration the day of diagnosis — DDA manages the waiting list statewide.

Maryland has several waiver types under DDA including the Community Pathways and Family Supports waivers.

Apply or learn more →

Statewide resources

These four programs exist in every state and are the fastest entry points for most families.

Parent Training & Information (PTI)

The Parents' Place of Maryland

(410) 768-9100

Federally funded — free help with IEPs, evaluations, and special ed rights.

Insurance Coverage

Whether private insurance must cover ABA therapy in Maryland.

Maryland requires insurance to cover ABA therapy

HB 221 · effective 2009

No age capNo dollar capDiagnosis required

Originally limited to age 10, later amended to remove the age cap. Requires autism diagnosis and a licensed BCBA. Self-funded employer plans (ERISA) are exempt — ask HR which type of plan you have.

Self-funded employer plans (ERISA) are typically exempt — ask your HR department which type of plan you have.

Medicaid Waiver

Home and community-based services (HCBS) for autism families in Maryland.

Community Supports Waiver / Family Supports Waiver

Maryland Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA)

Varies

Typical wait time

2-5 years (varies by service tier and individual need)

Coverage highlights

  • ✓Respite
  • ✓Supported Living
  • ✗Therapy
  • ✓Employment Supports

Maryland DDA offers tiered waivers: the Family Supports Waiver provides in-home supports while the Community Supports Waiver covers broader services. Maryland moved to a needs-based prioritization system, so those with the most urgent needs may receive services sooner. Contact your regional DDA office to begin the Letter of Intent process.

How to apply

Apply online →410-767-5600

Medicaid Managed Care

How Medicaid pays for ABA therapy in Maryland.

Maryland Medicaid HealthChoice

Covers ABA through under 21

How to find your plan

Visit mmcp.health.maryland.gov or call 1-800-284-4510. Your HealthChoice plan name is on your Maryland Medicaid card.

Major plans in this state

  • Amerigroup Maryland
  • CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield Community Health Plan
  • Priority Partners (Johns Hopkins)
  • UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Maryland

Maryland's HealthChoice managed care program uses regional plans. ABA therapy is covered for children under 21 through EPSDT. Behavioral health services are carved out to Beacon Health Options/Optum; contact your MCO to understand which entity manages ABA authorizations. Prior authorization is required.

⚠️ Prior authorization is required before starting ABA services.