Evaluation

If the screening tool identifies an area of concern, a formal developmental evaluation may be needed. This formal evaluation is a more in-depth look at a child’s development, usually done by a specialist, such as a developmental pediatrician, child psychologist, speech-language pathologist, occupational therapist, or other specialist. Getting input from a team of professionals is usually best but can be a complicated process.

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In order to complete evaluations for children in Island County, local providers have developed a single-entry system. This allows parents/guardians access to all parts of a developmental evaluation without having to contact multiple providers. The goal is also to improve the management of referrals and reduce waiting times. 

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In Island County, any therapist, school teacher, educator, or parent with concerns or a positive screening that suggests a child may have autism spectrum disorder, should refer the child to their medical home. Your child’s medical home will then refer them for a formal developmental evaluation.

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After initial contact has been made, the psychologist may observe the child, give the child a structured test, ask the parents or caregivers questions, and ask them to fill out questionnaires. He/she may also ask for permission to contact other local providers that have had contact with the child (i.e, pediatrician, counselor, speech-language pathologist, occupational therapist or teacher) so that a well-rounded view can be obtained of how the child is able to interact in different settings. If a consultation or observation with other providers is necessary, then that will be arranged. At the end of the evaluation, the family will be invited to a conference to discuss the child’s developmental levels and specific results and recommendations. The results of this formal evaluation determines whether a child needs special treatments or early intervention services or both.