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Does Medicaid Cover ABA Therapy in North Dakota?

Published April 8, 2026

Yes — North Dakota Medicaid covers ABA therapy for children and teens under 21 with an autism diagnosis. North Dakota uses a fee-for-service Medicaid model, and Fargo and Bismarck have the most ABA provider options. Here's how families can access coverage.

Key takeaways

  • ND Medicaid covers ABA for all children under 21 with autism
  • North Dakota uses fee-for-service Medicaid — work directly with enrolled providers
  • North Dakota's commercial insurance mandate covers children through age 18
  • Fargo and Bismarck have the most ABA providers in the state
  • Adults may access services through the ND Developmental Disabilities program

How North Dakota Medicaid covers ABA

North Dakota Medicaid operates on a fee-for-service basis. You work directly with a North Dakota Medicaid-enrolled ABA provider who bills the state Medicaid program for your child's services. There are no separate managed care plans to navigate — your enrollment in Medicaid is your coverage.

North Dakota's autism insurance mandate

North Dakota law (NDCC § 26.1-36-09.10) requires fully-insured commercial health plans to cover ABA therapy for children with autism through age 18. Coverage includes diagnosis, assessment, and behavioral health treatment.

How to access ABA through North Dakota Medicaid

  1. Confirm your ND Medicaid enrollment at nd.gov/dhs/services/medicalserv or call 1-844-854-4825.
  2. Get an autism diagnosis from a licensed professional.
  3. Find a North Dakota Medicaid-enrolled ABA provider using FindABA or the ND provider search.
  4. Prior authorization may be required — your provider submits documentation.
  5. Services begin at no cost to you.

North Dakota resources

Find North Dakota ABA providers that accept Medicaid

FindABA lists ABA providers in North Dakota showing accepted insurance plans including ND Medicaid and commercial insurers.

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