Autism Evaluation Process

To start the process of scheduling an autism evaluation at Children’s Mercy, follow these step-by-step directions.

1. Call us

If you or your child’s doctor have concerns about autism or developmental delays, call the Developmental & Behavioral Health intake line at (816) 234-3674. We will answer your questions and send you an email with a link to our screening form to start the process.

2. Collect information

Review the typical developmental milestones and autism red flags with your child’s primary care doctor, school/daycare, and any other caregivers.

Keep track of your concerns by taking notes, videos, and photos. Use this information to narrow down what specific developmental or behavioral concerns you have.

We will also request records from your child’s school and/or other service providers, if applicable. To expedite the process, be ready to upload any existing evaluations or treatment plans (e.g., records from First Steps/Infant Toddler Services, your child’s school, or other service providers).

3. Complete the screening form

After we receive the screening form, our clinic will review your paperwork to make sure we are the right fit for your child’s needs. If so, we will send you a “new patient packet” that includes forms for parents and teachers to complete. Please complete and mail back to the clinic along with records requested from other sources. If our clinic is not the right fit, we will help you to locate the appropriate resource at Children’s Mercy and/or in the community.

4. Join the waiting list

Once we have received your completed paperwork, you will get a post card in the mail confirming that we have your paperwork and that your child is on our waiting list for an autism evaluation.

5. Pursue intervention services

Because of the specialized providers involved, the wait time for a comprehensive evaluation can be long—anywhere from several weeks to several months. While you wait for your appointment date, pursue the options for early intervention and special education services as described above, and be sure to keep notes on your observations that will help you when you come to the clinic.

6. Receive your appointment time

Please note that children are not added to the waiting list for an evaluation until parent forms are received, so be sure to complete and return them as soon as possible. We will call you as soon as an appointment time is available to schedule your evaluation.

Find out more about what to expect at your evaluation appointment.