Autism Evaluations

What is Autism?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by differences in social communication and behavior. It is still unclear what causes autism, though there is definitively no evidence to suggest that autism is caused by childhood vaccines. Autism characteristics can be different for every child, and according to the latest estimates from the CDC in 2023, one in every 36 children in the United States has autism. The majority of children ultimately diagnosed with autism display developmental abnormalities by the age of 3 years old. However, less than half of these children receive any evaluation by 3 years of age, with delays in diagnosis by up to 2-3 years on average. Delays in diagnosis, lead to delay in starting therapies and evidence-based supports and services that are vital in helping children on the autism spectrum gain necessary skills that enable them to thrive. 


In order to decrease these delays in diagnoses and access to appropriate therapies and services, DV Pediatrics is now offering ECHO Autism Early Diagnostic Evaluations for qualifying patients 14 months up to 48 months of age. 

Autism Services at DV Pediatrics

ECHO Autism Early Diagnostic Evaluations: Evaluations are conducted by Dr. Vicki or Mrs. Kat, who are both ECHO Autism Primary Care Clinicians. Evaluations consist of three separate office visits.

  • 1st Visit (1 hour): Consists of a complete medical and behavioral history and medical examination of your child.
  • 2nd Visit (45 mins): Consists of a structured, behavioral observation that uses play based tools to examine how your child plays, communicates, and interacts.
  • 3rd Visit (30 mins): Consists of discussing all information and results obtained from visits 1 and 2. If your child is determined to have a diagnosis of autism, appropriate resources and referrals will be provided to you.


Autism Medication Management: Some children on the autism spectrum can benefit from different medications to help with difficult behaviors such as hyperactivity, inattention, insomnia, impulsivity, or violent outbursts. Providers at DV Pediatrics are equipped to medically manage these behaviors and provide children and families with any necessary referrals or resources.

Autism Resources