Autism is “a pervasive developmental disorder defined by the presence of abnormal and/or impaired development that is manifest before the age of three years, and by the characteristic type of abnormal functioning in all three areas of social interaction, communication and restricted, repetitive behavior.” (ICD-10) There are several analytical ways of understanding autism. Some measure interconnectedness, while others measure impairments in distinct areas, such as speech and language, occupational therapy assessments, etc. Holistic measurement of disability emphasizes interconnectedness of the three areas. This is different to area specific analysis. Analysis of dysfunction therefore has a dominating influence in enumerating costs. Area specific analysis yields different cost structures to that of a comprehensive analysis. Moreover suggested care plans are also highly dependent upon the analytical methods used. Costs of autism therefore depend fundamentally on two factors (a) the way analysis is conducted, and (b) the care plan based on the analysis. This paper enumerates costs of autism based on ICF-CY. ICF-CY provides analysis of comprehensive global functioning across many domains as it is a tool for classification of functioning in a range of childhood activities and participations which have lifelong implications. Therefore ICF-CY provides an analytical framework for enumerating costs over the lifespan of autistic children. 40 children who have confirmed DSM IV diagnosis of Autism will be analyzed according to their ICF-CY disability profile. Domain based costs will be enumerated and a model for calculating costs for Autism in children will be proposed using the following domains – self care, mobility, communication, domestic life, interpersonal interaction, major life areas, activity and participation, and community social and civic life.
