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  • child-diagnosis
  1. About Autism
  2. Diagnosis
  3. Child

Child Diagnosis

The diagnostic process can be complex and parents are often left with many questions prior to, during and after diagnosis. This section provides key information to navigate the diagnostic process as smoothly as possible.

We know this can be a very worrying time but it’s important to remember you’re not alone, and that we are here to help. Please note that NEAS is not a diagnostic service.

Access more information on our Family Resources site

What are the signs and symptoms of possible autism?

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  • Primary school children (age 5–11 years).
  • Secondary school children (older than 11 years).

Adapted from ‘Autism: recognition, referral and diagnosis of children and young people on the autism spectrum’ (NICE clinical guideline 128).

Published: 2nd November, 2015

Updated: 3rd November, 2015

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What happens if I don’t agree?

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After a diagnosis it’s likely you’ll have to navigate an array of different thoughts, emotions and feelings. We want you to know that this is okay. 

As a parent, you may not agree with the findings, in which case you can request a second opinion.

You can do this by:

  • Going back to the GP. Tell them that you are not happy with the findings and that you would like your child to be referred elsewhere for a second opinion. 
  • Ask the diagnostic team to refer you on to a ‘specialist level of healthcare’ also known as a tertiary level service. This usually happens in ‘complex cases’ and does require additional funding. 
  • Seeking a private diagnosis.

Published: 2nd November, 2015

Updated: 12th April, 2021

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What will happen after the assessment?

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At the point of diagnosis you should receive a written report which explains the findings of the assessment and the reasons for any conclusions drawn. You may be asked for consent for the clinician to make referrals to other services such as Occupational Therapy.

You may be offered a follow up appointment within six weeks of diagnosis. If you are not offered this, you are within your rights to request one. Some areas offer a post diagnostic autism course after a diagnosis, your clinician would refer you to this.

Published: 2nd November, 2015

Updated: 12th April, 2021

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Who may be involved with my child's diagnosis?

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  • Child and adolescent Psychiatrist: A doctor who specialises in children and young people’s mental health.
  • Clinical psychologist: Someone who can assess your child’s psychological functioning and emotional wellbeing. 
  • Educational Psychologist: Someone who works to help your child overcome learning difficulties and behaviour in an education setting. 
  • Occupational Therapist: Someone who will support your child with their sensory differences. 
  • Paediatrician: A doctor who specialises in children’s health. 
  • Paediatric Neurologist: A doctor who specialises in the brain. 
  • Speech and language therapist: Someone who helps support speech and communication.

Published: 2nd November, 2015

Updated: 12th April, 2021

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What happens at the assessment?

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The Assessment process may involve many different professionals for example Physichiatrist, Occupational therapist and Speech therapist. People who have been involved with your child should be involved.

The process could involve:

  • Meetings to collect information regarding your child and family history
  • Observations of your child in a variety of settings
  • Collecting reports about your child from all settings
  • Medical examination

Each stage of the process should be explained to you, and you should be given time to ask any questions.
During the process diagnostic tools will be used, these are to help identify autism within your child. Some of the more common tools used are listed below, but please note there are others :

  • The Autism Diagnosis Interview-Revised (ADI-R)
  • The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-Generic (ADOS-G)
  • The Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS)
  • The Diagnostic Instrument for Social and Communication Disorders (DISCO)
  • The Gilliam Autism Rating Scale (GARS)

When conducting an autism assessment there are guidelines which must be followed, please click here for more information. 

Published: 2nd November, 2015

Updated: 12th April, 2021

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What can my GP do?

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At the appointment the GP may ask you about:

  • Antenatal and perinatal history
  • Your child’s development
  • Factors that are associated with an increased prevalence of autism
  • Medical history
  • Information about previous assessments

Based on the information you give and the observations made the GP may refer your child for an autism assessment. The NICE guidelines do state that you should get an appointment within three months but waiting times for assessment can vary depending on where you live and what services are available.

Published: 2nd November, 2015

Updated: 12th April, 2021

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Is seeing my GP the only option?

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There are many professionals and organisations that can provide private assessments for your child. Parents sometimes opt for these as waiting times can sometimes be lengthy, however costs do vary.

It’s also important to note that some local authorities may not accept the results of private diagnoses. They might insist upon an NHS diagnosis before they will provide services to you and your child. For this reason, we suggest that you stay on the waiting list for an NHS assessment even if you do go private.

Published: 2nd November, 2015

Updated: 12th April, 2021

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I think my child may be autistic - what do I do?

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If you think that a person may be autistic the first port of call will be your General Practitioner (GP). After the initial appointment your GP may decide to refer the person on to an autism diagnostic pathway or a different pathway if appropriate.

If your child is of school age, you could speak to the schools Special educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO), or if your child is under school age, speaking to your health visitor can help. 

When you visit the GP for the initial appointment take a list of things that are causing you concern, to discuss with your doctor.

Published: 2nd November, 2015

Updated: 12th April, 2021

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