Screening and Characteristics

People who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may experience a range of characteristics and symptoms. Some people may have noticeable characteristics, others may not. Autism may be identified as early as18 to 24 months but can be diagnosed at any age. Screening and identification will help increase access to services and supports.

Why is early identification or obtaining a medical diagnosis important?

To gain access to funding and services: Having a formal medical/ clinical diagnosis opens up the door to accessing services and reducing financial burden.
To help others better understand how to support the person: Understanding how a person thinks and learns may help parents, teachers, co-workers and others understand better ways to communicate with the person, what support they might need and what their strengths are.
To help you understand better what support you might need and how to advocate for yourself.

Pediatric Developmental Screening Steps

1. Parent completes screening tool in waiting room.

2. Clinical staff scores and reviews the screening tool.

If Positive:

a. Immediate action required.

b. Provider discusses results and concerns with parents.

c. Furthermore, specific medical and developmental assessment and/or refers for further assessment will be completed.

d. Referral to appropriate early intervention services if child is not yet 3 years old or special educations program if the child is 3 years or older.

If Negative:

· If there are no further concerns

a. The provider will discuss results with parents.

b. Provided anticipatory guidance.

c. No immediate action is required.

d. Rescreen at next well-child visit.

e. Provider discusses results and concerns with parents.

· If there are still concerns

a. The provider will discuss results with parents.

b. Provides anticipatory guidance.

c. Monitor development.

d. Rescreen at next well-child visit.

a. Referral to appropriate early intervention services if a child is not yet 3 years old or special education program if the child is 3 years or older.

a. The provider discusses results with parents.

b. Provides anticipatory guidance.

c. No immediate action is required.

d. Rescreen at next well-child visit.