Re-diagnosis of pervasive developmental disorder or autism not required

Effective Jan. 1, 2026, Assembly Bill 951 (AB 951) prohibits commercial health plans from requiring a member previously diagnosed with pervasive developmental disorder (PDD) or autism to receive a re-diagnosis to maintain coverage for behavioral health treatment. 

Magellan* operates in compliance with this law in California and does not require a re-diagnosis for continuing coverage for PDD or autism, following an initial diagnosis.

AB 951 also clarifies that:

• Treating providers may prescribe a re-diagnosis at their clinical discretion.
• Health plans may continue to conduct utilization review to determine the medical necessity of services that are proposed or provided.

*In California, Magellan does business as Human Affairs International of California and/or Magellan Health Services of California, Inc. – Employer Services.