Have you ever wondered how much it might cost to get a full autism evaluation in the United States? Well, it’s not a straightforward answer, as prices can vary quite a bit. But, to give you an idea, the average cost for a full evaluation generally falls between $1,000 and $2,000. Let’s dive into How much does an autism diagnosis cost?
How much does an autism diagnosis cost in USA States
- Family Guidance and Therapy Center in Bend, Oregon charges about $2,200 for a full evaluation. It’s a bit above the average, but this gives you a sense of the higher end.
- Over in New York, NY, GRASP offers a range of options:
- Their most affordable assessment is around $900.
- A full assessment with a detailed report will set you back about $1,800.
- If you’re looking for the most comprehensive assessment they offer, it’s priced at $2,700.
- Heading to Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Ally Psychological Services quotes $3,500 for a full evaluation. This is on the higher side, reflecting the depth and detail of their assessment.
- Virginia Tech Autism Clinic in Blacksburg, Virginia, has a more budget-friendly option at $800 for a diagnostic assessment.
- In Petaluma, California, Dr. Macleamy offers a full assessment for $2,000.
- Lastly, the Faison Center in Richmond, Virginia, has a couple of options:
- $300 for an ADOS, which is a specific autism diagnostic tool.
- A more comprehensive diagnostic evaluation falls between $800 and $1,200.
The Cost with Insurance – What to Expect
Dealing with insurance can be like navigating a maze, but it’s an important part of figuring out the cost of an autism evaluation. Here’s the scoop:
- Insurance Coverage Varies: Many insurance plans do cover parts of the autism evaluation process, which can include diagnostic assessments and other related services like speech therapy or occupational therapy.
- Your Out-of-Pocket Costs: The actual cost with insurance depends on your plan’s specifics, like your co-pay, co-insurance, and deductible. For example:
- Some plans might have a co-pay of $50 to $100 for each visit.
- Others might ask for a co-insurance, which is usually a percentage of the total cost.
- Limitations and Requirements: Keep in mind, some plans have limits on the number of visits they’ll cover each year. Plus, they might need a prior authorization or a referral from your primary care doctor before they agree to cover the costs.
Autism Evaluation Cost Without Insurance – What to Expect
The costs of an autism evaluation without insurance can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry, we’ll break it down to make it more understandable:
- The Price Tag: Without insurance, an autism evaluation can vary greatly in cost, but it’s usually several thousand dollars. Yes, it’s a significant amount, but knowing what to expect can help in planning.
- What’s Included?: The evaluation often involves different specialists like psychologists, speech therapists, and occupational therapists. Each of these professionals brings their expertise to the table, and this reflects in the cost.
- The Breakdown:
- A diagnostic assessment by a psychologist might cost between $1,500 and $3,000.
- Need a speech and language evaluation? That could be an additional $500 to $1,000.
- Occupational therapy evaluations usually charge around $100 to $200 per hour.
- Adding Up: These costs can quickly add up, especially since multiple evaluations are often needed for a comprehensive diagnosis.
- Extra Expenses: Sometimes, you might need to travel to get the best services, adding costs like transportation and lodging.
- Good News: Some non-profits and community programs offer financial help or sliding-scale fees. It’s worth looking into these options to ease the financial burden.
Final Thoughts
Remember, an autism evaluation is a crucial step in getting the right support and resources. While the costs can be a concern, there are ways to manage them. Don’t hesitate to reach out to local organizations, support groups, or healthcare providers for guidance and assistance. They can offer valuable information and help you navigate this journey more easily.
