Virtual Autism Assessment
When it comes to autism, timing is everything. Early interventions can often help stop or even reverse the symptoms and challenges associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). At Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, we have a team of pediatric specialists with expertise in screening, diagnosing and treating ASD, and ensuring your child has access to the timely care he or she needs.
Our virtual autism assessment service is a first step for families to receive a diagnosis of—or rule out—ASD. Our autism experts will meet with you virtually and review your concerns, obtain medical and developmental information. Videos of concerning behaviors, play in the natural environment, and interaction with peers/caregivers will be requested. Our autism experts will then review the videos, meet with you for a second visit while preparing a report of their diagnosis and recommendations for you.
Virtual Autism Assessment: Why Choose Us
Quicker diagnosis: Instead of being placed on a waitlist or traveling long distances to see an autism expert, using the virtual autism assessment service enables you to receive prompt guidance from our specialists. Families typically receive a report within 7 to 10 business days after the second meeting .
In-home privacy: The virtual autism assessment is done in your child’s natural environment, providing a valuable perspective that cannot be easily replicated in a clinical test setting.
Written report: After reviewing the videos, our experts will prepare a diagnostic report with their findings and recommendations, which can be shared with your child’s health care provider or school.
How to Use the Virtual Autism Assessment
Request an Assessment
Complete Assessment Form HERE
Submit Your Videos
Our autism experts will discuss the most effective ways to share your videos.
Wait For Your Report
Based on the videos you submit, our experts will review your child’s behaviors and symptoms and provide a diagnosis within 7 to 10 business days of completing all requirements.
Review Your Report
You will be provided with a diagnostic report to share with your child’s health care professional. When appropriate, our experts will also include recommendations and referrals to community resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an age limit?
Yes, we offer assessments for children ages 18 months to 5 years old.
Why should I choose Children’s Hospital Los Angeles for a virtual autism assessment?
Our expert physicians are trained to remotely diagnose autism. If your child is diagnosed with ASD, you will be connected to appropriate treatments for your child. Using the virtual autism assessment service will ensure that your child is receiving the best care with the most up-to-date resources available.
What is the benefit of using the virtual autism assessment versus an in-person appointment?
The wait times for an autism screening at health care centers across the country can be several weeks to months, and centers are often miles away from home. By using the virtual autism assessment at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, your child will be assessed by an autism expert, and you will receive a report of the findings within 7 to 10 business days of submitting the necessary forms and videos. This can all be done in the comfort of your own home, and the report can also be sent to your primary pediatrician.
What device do I need to use to record videos?
Videos can be recorded on any smart device (phone, tablet, etc.). In what scenarios should I be recording my child?
- When your child is playing by themselves
- When your child is playing and interacting with peers
- When your child is playing or engaging with parents/ caregivers
- Any other scenarios where your child shows behavior that is concerning
Do you accept insurance?
Yes, we accept insurance. Please note that HMO; EPO; POS insurance requires a referral from your primary provider, PPO insurance does not require a referral.
How much does a virtual autism assessment cost?
Insurance is accepted. The out of pocket fee for this service is $875 and can be paid by credit card or a health savings account (HSA).
Who can I contact if I have general questions about the virtual autism assessment?
Please contact VirtualAutismAssessment@chla.usc.edu if you have questions about this service.