Naples - Concern is growing among families in the northern province of Naples over the future of therapies for children with autism.
The association "La Battaglia di Andrea" has raised the alarm, collecting reports from numerous parents from Cardito, Crispano and Caivano. According to reports, a rehabilitation center located in Caserta, which takes care of their children, has communicated an imminent halving of the hours of therapy.
According to parents, the drastic decision is based on a regional resolution dating back to July 2024. This measure, according to the center, requires 80% of places to be reserved for children residing within the Caserta Local Health Authority (ASL).
"We were told in no uncertain terms that we had to accept a voluntary reduction in our treatment by signing a pre-formulated form, otherwise they would automatically halve it, with the real risk of not seeing our treatment plan renewed when it expires," reports Romina, a visibly worried mother.
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The woman adds that many families, fearing to completely lose therapeutic support, have already signed the proposed document.
The parents strongly contest the measure, emphasizing that a blanket halving of the rates completely disregards the specific therapeutic needs identified by the specialists treating the children. "In response to our questions," Romina continues, "the center has shifted the blame to the Region, citing priority for Caserta residents. But this resolution violates Article 3 of the Constitution on equality and Article 32 on the right to health."
Asia Maraucci, president of "La Battaglia di Andrea," calls the situation "absurd" and announces the association's legal commitment to protect children's rights. "Institutions must guarantee the right to treatment," says Maraucci, who has already informed Mario Iervolino, general director of the ASL Napoli 2 Nord, trusting in his intervention to ensure continuity of care for the young patients.
The incident casts a shadow over the prospects for care for autistic children in the area, fueling calls from families for the relevant institutions to quickly address the situation.
Comments (1)
It is worrying that families in North Naples have to deal with this situation. Cutting therapy hours in half is not fair, especially for children who need continuous support. There are already many difficulties to deal with.