HALIFAX — Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil says a “national conversation” on autism is needed, but the province must examine existing programs to provide additional support for families who need help. The family’s plight saw Autism Canada and the Canadian Autism Spectrum Disorder Alliance renew calls for a national strategy, saying Callum’s case illustrates what happens when families can’t get crisis assistance. Nova Scotia’s Health Department said it is spending about $15.7 million on autism services in the province this year. The figure includes $300,000 for Autism Nova Scotia to expand resource centres, particularly in rural areas. In an interview this week, Health Minister Randy Delorey said the range of conditions and individual needs on the autism spectrum make for challenges when it comes to funding specific needs.

Source: National Post December 07, 2017 20:28 UTC