Association for Behavior Analysis International

The industry for providing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services to individuals with disabilities has traditionally been challenging, but even more so recently due to COVID-related exposure risk. Even prior to the COVID pandemic and its related constraints on behavioral healthcare, the intricate variables related to providing ABA services (e.g., reimbursement rates, credentialing requirements, individualized programming and training) have required very thoughtful processes and implementation. For most providers, achieving a healthy level of profitability through operational efficiency has become a critical component in maintaining viability. To that end, direct therapy services have a significant impact on achieving sustainable contribution margin targets for an organization. Direct therapy reimbursement rates relative to behavior technician wage rates, along with behavior technician productivity, need to be maintained at high levels to ensure sustainable gross margins. Additionally, supervisor productivity needs to be high, while costs to manage supervisors are optimized. Such considerations are all crucial operational considerations—though not clinical—of an effective ABA practice. The panel will discuss variables contributing to the financial success and viability of ABA companies, as well as recommended considerations to achieving profitability in the challenging world of ABA services.

ABA practitioners involved in the operational decision-making of their organizations.