The following definitions and those found in chapter 182-500 WAC, medical definitions, and chapter 182-531 WAC, physician-related services, apply throughout this chapter.

Applied behavior analysis or ABA - Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is an empirically validated approach to improve behavior and skills related to core impairments associated with autism and a number of other developmental disabilities. ABA involves the systematic application of scientifically validated principles of human behavior to change inappropriate behaviors. ABA uses scientific methods to reliably demonstrate that behavioral improvements are caused by the prescribed interventions. ABA's focus on social significance promotes a family-centered and whole-life approach to intervention. Common methods used include: Assessment of behavior, caregiver interviews, direct observation, and collection of data on targeted behaviors. A single-case design is used to demonstrate the relationship between the environment and behavior as a means to implement client-specific ABA therapy treatment plans with specific goals and promote lasting change. ABA also includes the implementation of a functional behavior assessment to identify environmental variables that maintain challenging behavior and allow for more effective interventions to be developed that reduce challenging behaviors and teach appropriate replacement behaviors.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) - A condition, as defined by Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) or Diagnostic Classification of Mental Health and Developmental Disorders of Infancy and Early Childhood (DC 0-5) criteria.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnostic tool - A validated tool used to establish the presence (or absence) of autism and to make a definitive diagnosis which will be the basis for treatment decisions and assist in the development of a multidisciplinary clinical treatment plan. Examples of autism diagnostic tools include:

(a) Autism Diagnosis Interview (ADI); and

(b) Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS).

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) screening tool - A tool used to detect ASD indicators or risk factors which then require confirmation. Examples of screening tools include, but are not limited to:

(a) Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ);

(b) Communication and Symbolic Behavior Scales (CSBS);

(c) Parent's Evaluation and Developmental Status (PEDS);

(d) Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (MCHAT); and

(e) Screening Tools for Autism in Toddlers and young children (STAT).

Centers of excellence (COE) - An individual provider who has been trained, as listed in WAC 182-531A-0800, to establish or confirm the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and that has been designated by the agency as a center of excellence provider. For the purposes of this chapter, center of excellence (COE) refers to an individual provider, not a facility.

Client - For the purposes of this chapter, client means a person enrolled in Washington apple health (WAH).

Family member - A client's parent, guardian, caregiver, or other support person.

Qualifying diagnosis - A diagnosis of an ASD, as defined by the DSM or DC 0-5, or other intellectual or developmental disability for which there is evidence ABA is effective.