ASD Diagnostic Clinic

Overview

NESCA is committed to addressing the ongoing need for early identification of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). With many hospitals maintaining years-long waitlists for neurodevelopmental evaluations for children under age five, families are often left waiting for answers and support. NESCA’s ASD Diagnostic Clinic was created to help families access timely evaluation, diagnosis, and recommendations for intervention.

NESCA’s ASD Diagnostic Clinic is staffed by neuropsychologists with expertise in the early identification and treatment of ASD in children as early as 12 months.

ASD Diagnostic Testing is a comprehensive evaluation conducted by clinicians specializing in the diagnosis of ASD. The goals of the clinic are to:

  1. Provide timely and accurate identification of ASD
  2. Recommend appropriate interventions and next steps for treatment and support

NESCA’s specialists integrate information from multiple sources to assess each child’s developmental profile, provide an accurate diagnosis, and develop individualized recommendations. Evaluations are conducted in accordance with recommendations from the National Research Council’s Committee on Educational Interventions for Children with Autism.

How is ASD Diagnostic Testing Administered?

ASD Diagnostic Testing at NESCA includes:

  • A virtual intake appointment with parents/caregivers to review developmental history
  • Administration of a structured empirically-validated measure of ASD
  • Direct assessment of a child’s emerging cognitive, language and social skills in a flexible, play-based format
  • Review of developmental history and collateral (parent and provider) report
  • A virtual feedback session to review diagnosis and recommendations

ASD Diagnostic Clinic FAQs

Who is a candidate for ASD Diagnostic Testing?

Through this clinic, we are targeting children aged 3 and under who are considered at high risk of having an autism spectrum disorder. Children may be referred by their caregivers, early intervention providers, pediatricians, medical specialists, or educators.

Why should I pursue ASD Diagnostic Testing at NESCA?

The American Association of Pediatrics recommends early screenings and follow-up diagnostic assessments for ASD rather than the “wait and see” approach. Early detection and diagnosis of ASD results in immediate and long-term positive outcomes for children. If interventions are delivered early, there is less risk that developmental delays become permanent. This is because during early childhood, the brain is able to rapidly acquire new skills and grow.

Is ASD Diagnostic Testing covered by my insurance?

A portion of the evaluation is covered by Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) and United Behavioral Health (UBH). NESCA can provide receipts for clients who have a different insurance provider for potential reimbursement. NESCA does not submit ASD Diagnostic Testing claims to any carrier other than BCBS and cannot guarantee any reimbursement when claims are submitted to them by the client.

When and how will I receive the results?

Results and recommendations are reviewed and discussed in a virtual diagnostic feedback meeting with caregivers. A written report will be sent to the parents within 2 weeks of the feedback session.

What’s next after my child participates in ASD Diagnostic Testing?

The written report provides the documentation needed to access ASD-specialty treatments and services (such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy). NESCA’s reports also provide families with tailored referrals to effective interventions and therapies based on your child’s needs, including Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Parent Consultation/Coaching, among others. NESCA’s ASD Diagnostic Clinic is dedicated to family-centered care and offers ongoing consultation and support with NESCA’s early childhood and ASD experts following the initial diagnosis. NESCA will remain available to you and your child from early childhood into adulthood to support important transitions, such as the transition from early intervention to preschool, preschool to kindergarten, or middle school to high school.

Is ASD Diagnostic Testing provided through remote or telehealth methods?

NESCA’s ASD specialists believe in the utility of in-person direct observation of a child’s behavior and functioning. NESCA is pleased to offer contactless in-person appointments with a number of health and safety protocols in place. While NESCA neuropsychologists conduct in-person assessment of your child’s behavior and skills, caregiver intake meetings and diagnostic feedback sessions are provided remotely.

I completed checklists for developmental delays and ASD at my pediatrician’s office. Do I still need ASD Diagnostic Testing?

Yes. While developmental screenings are a critical aspect of your child’s medical care and can identify “red flags” for ASD, a screening tool (such as a parent questionnaire) cannot provide a diagnosis of ASD. There is no definitive or proven laboratory test, medical test or questionnaire that provides a diagnosis of ASD. A diagnosis of ASD must be provided by a qualified and highly-trained ASD specialist through direct observation of a child’s behaviors using gold-standard measures as well as a thorough review of developmental history.

If you are interested in learning more about ASD Diagnostic Testing through NESCA’s ASD Diagnostic Clinic, please complete our online Inquiry/Intake Form.