Autism Evaluation & Coordination of Care

Autism is referred to as ASD (autism spectrum disorder). ASD is as difficult to diagnosis as ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) due to the complexity of the symptoms and the age at which they can develop.

ASD can be seen as early as 18 months or younger, but a diagnosis is much more reliable by the age of two. Some diagnoses will not be definite until the child is older. Autism has been discovered in adolescents and adults, making it harder to treat as they missed out on the early interventions they needed.

Early signs of autism that may raise red flags with parents and their pediatrician include limited language development for their age, avoiding eye contact, having little interest in the people around them, and extreme agitation with slight changes in routine.

Early diagnosis of autism introduces the support needed for children with autism to reach their full potential throughout life.

Autism evaluation and coordination of care at Shining Star Pediatrics consist of several levels. Developmental monitoring is done by the pediatrician here, as well as family and caretakers to watch for milestone achievement and behavioral problems. Developmental screening is a more formal process that takes place intermittently to chart progression and the need for additional help.

Treatment plans are individualized to each child, and at Shining Star Pediatrics, we strive to make the best decisions for each patient on a personal level.