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Developmental Screening for Autism

 

When to screen: 18 and 24 month well-child visits

Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder often become apparent around the child’s first year, and can be identified by 18 months. This screen has two stages. First, a 20-item questionnaire helps identify children at risk for Autism Spectrum Disorder. The second stage is a short follow-up interview completed immediately after the initial screen with the family in order to reduce the number of false positive results.

Louisiana Medicaid reimburses for autism screens using code 96110. Please refer to the bulletin and fee schedule for more information.

 

  

Recommended Tool: Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers Revised (M-CHAT-R/F)

  • Cost: No Cost
  • Languages Available: 40+ languages
  • Age Range: 16 – 30 months
  • What is Assessed: Risk for Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • Time to Complete: 5-10 minutes for initial questionnaire
  • Time to Score: Initial score 1 minute, additional 10 minutes if follow-up interview is necessary (i.e., if initial score is between 3-7)
  • Suggestions for When and Where: The initial questionnaire can be given to families by front desk staff and completed in the waiting room. Scoring and follow-up interview (if necessary) should be completed in an exam room.


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