Learn more about the ASERT Needs Assessment
What is ASERT?
As a recommendation by the PA Autism Task Force, the ASERT Centers were created to provide regional resources, training, and information to individuals with autism and their families. The ASERT Centers are funded by the Department of Public Welfare, Bureau of Autism Services.
The mission of the ASERT Centers is to enhance the lives of Pennsylvanians with autism, of all ages and abilities, by improving regional access to quality services and interventions, providing information and support to families, training professionals in best practices and facilitating collaboration among providers of services throughout the Commonwealth.
What does ASERT stand for?
Autism Services, Education, Research, & Training
Where is ASERT? How can I contact ASERT?
There are 3 ASERT Centers. Please view the map here to see which region serves your county and contact information.
|
Western Region |
Central Region | Eastern Region |
|---|---|---|---|
Director |
John McGonigle, Ph.D. |
Shiyoko Cothren, M.H.A. |
Lindsay Lawer, M.S. |
Phone |
412-235-5407 |
1-877-231-4244 |
1-866-506-5841 |
E-mail/Web |
What is the statewide needs assessment?
The goal of the needs assessment is to better understand the services used by individuals with autism and their families, gaps in service, quality of service, and concerns of individuals with autism and their families.
Why was I sent a letter?
DPW compiled a list of individuals who received healthcare paid by PA Medical Assistance associated with an autism diagnosis some time in the past 10 years.
Is the ASERT part of the Department of Public Welfare?
No. The ASERT Centers are funded by DPW, Bureau of Autism Services, but operate independently.
How is my information protected?
All information is kept strictly confidential. Your information was not shared with anyone outside Department of Public Welfare. Your survey responses are anonymous.
How is this information being used?
It is our hope that the survey responses will inform better training opportunities for staff, help increase regional resources, and highlight providers that parents recommend.
Will completing the survey/not completing the survey affect my services?
No, you will not lose any services or other benefits coming to you now or in the future.
My child does not have an autism diagnosis. What should I do?
Please ignore the letter. We apologize for the error. Some healthcare claims include autism as a rule-out diagnosis, and some are simply miscoded.
I moved out of Pennsylvania years ago. Should I complete the survey?
No, we are surveying Pennsylvania residents only.
My adult child received a letter about the survey, but he/she is unable to complete it for himself/herself. Can I complete the survey for him/her?
Yes, if your adult child is no longer in school, please complete the Adult survey. If your child is over the age of 18, but still enrolled in school, please complete the Middle/High survey. Individuals with autism over the age of 18 may complete the Individual survey
I completed the survey, but received a second letter. What should I do?
Please complete the survey only once. Thank you for your participation!