CDEs and ABA in Florida: What Every Parent Should Know
Changes Effective February 1, 2025
When your child is showing signs of autism or developmental delays, getting the right help can feel overwhelming. In Florida, one of the most important first steps is a Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation (CDE) — especially if you plan to access ABA therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis) through Medicaid or private insurance.
What Is a CDE?
A CDE is a detailed evaluation done by a licensed professional like a developmental pediatrician, psychologist (Ph.D. or Psy.D.), psychiatrist, or neurologist. It helps determine whether your child has autism or another developmental condition — and what services are medically necessary.
The evaluation usually includes:
Interviews with parents or caregivers
A developmental and medical history
Observation of your child
Standardized tests and questionnaires
A written report with a formal diagnosis and therapy recommendations
Why Do You Need a CDE for ABA Therapy?
ABA is one of the most widely recommended therapies for children with autism. But before insurance companies — including Florida Medicaid — will approve or pay for ABA services, they require:
A confirmed diagnosis, and
A statement that ABA is medically necessary for your child
That’s where the CDE comes in. Without it, insurance cannot authorize therapy.
Changes – Effective February 1, 2025
As of June 1, 2025, Florida Medicaid has made the following changes:
CDEs are required for all new ABA authorizations.
ABA services must be pre-authorized by the child’s Medicaid managed care plan.
Providers must submit the CDE and other documents before therapy can begin.
All services must be billed through the child’s Medicaid Managed Medical Assistance (MMA) plan.
Families not enrolled in an MMA plan will continue to receive services under the fee-for-service system, but the CDE requirement still applies.
What Should Parents Do?
Talk to your child’s doctor about your concerns and ask for a referral for a CDE.
Schedule the evaluation with a qualified provider.
Once you have the CDE, share it with your ABA provider to begin the prior authorization process.
Keep a copy for your records — it is often required again for school services or renewals.
References:
If you're a parent who wants to learn more, these trusted sources can help you understand autism evaluations and ABA therapy better:
The Lancet: What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
A medical article that explains what autism is, how it’s diagnosed, and what therapies help.
Read it hereCDC: How Common is Autism in Children?
This report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shares data on autism in the U.S. and how it affects kids.
Read the CDC reportAmerican Academy of Pediatrics: How Doctors Diagnose and Treat Autism
A guide written for pediatricians that explains how autism is diagnosed and what treatments are recommended — including CDEs and ABA.
Read the AAP articleFlorida Medicaid: ABA Policy Updates (Effective February 1, 2025)
Official updates from the Florida health agency about what’s required for ABA therapy to be approved through Medicaid.
Visit the Medicaid info page