Understanding eligibility for NBRC, what services are provided, and how to appeal decisions regarding service denials are just a few of the important information topics found in the new Guide to NBRC. This is a ‘must have’ for all individuals and families receiving services as well as those public agencies making referrals to NBRC. Please feel free to download this Guide to your personal computer and contact your Service Coordinator if you have questions.

Every year state regional centers like NBRC enter into performance contracts with the state Department of Developmental Services to provide and coordinate services. In an effort to continue reducing disparities between different ethnic groups regarding accessing and receiving services needed, this year NBRC has added satisfaction goals to its performance plan. NBRC will utilize baseline National Core Indicators (NCI) data that states the number/percent of individuals who are satisfied with services to identify actions that will address disparities;  and analyze data related to services making a difference in helping to keep a family member at home to reduce barriers identified.

Public input is critical to our efforts to reduce disparities and we encourage your feedback. Take a look at our Plan by clicking here and give us your input by clicking here.

The State Council’s Regional Self-Advocacy Newsletter highlights some important innovations impacting the regional center system. Ari Ne’eman, Autistic Self Advocacy Network co-founder, brings light to the new CMS rules and how these promote community integration and choice. Sara Murphy  of WorkLink/TransCen describes the merits of “braided services” to promote employment. Read more.

One in every 68 children in the U.S. is diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum. It’s long been known that genetics plays a role in the neurodevelopmental disorder.

Now scientists believe they have the tools to identify which gene variants trigger autism and with that information diagnose and treat it much earlier. A project called MSSNG has brought together an unusual partnership and is giving hope to affected families. Read more.

CLAREMONT >> The issue of autism has popped up repeatedly during the 2016 presidential campaign: Donald Trump has blamed it on vaccines, Rand Paul has arguably suggested the same and Carly Fiorina has suggested making vaccines optional as a result. “Autism politics is like faculty politics on crystal meth,” said Jack Pitney, a professor of politics at Claremont McKenna College.

That the disorder has somehow become part of the political conversation isn’t a surprise to Pitney, whose new book, “The Politics of Autism: Navigating The Contested Spectrum,” was published in August. “The idea that vaccines cause autism has been thoroughly discredited, but nevertheless, it has a large and loyal following,” he said. Read more.

Are you a new Service Provider with NBRC? Recently completed the vendorization process? Join NBRC November 18th for our New Provider Orientation. Click here for registration information.