Alerts:  Nov. 12, 2024: Pertussis (whooping cough) outbreak confirmed in Spokane County. SRHD urges parents and pregnant people to vaccinate. Read the press release.

Overview

Asperger syndrome, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified, and autism were replaced by the term, “autism spectrum disorder” in the 2013 Diagnostic and Statistical Manual-5 (DSM-5).

One of the most important things you can do as a parent or caregiver is to learn the early signs of autism spectrum disorder and become familiar with the typical developmental milestones that your child should be reaching.

The following “red flags” may indicate your child is at risk for an autism spectrum disorder. If you child exhibits any of the following, please don’t delay in asking your pediatrician or family doctor for an evaluation:

  • No big smiles or other warm, joyful expressions by six months or thereafter
  • No back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles, or other facial expressions by nine months
  • No babbling by 12 months
  • No back-and-forth gestures such as pointing, showing, reaching or waving by 12 months
  • No words by 16 months
  • No meaningful, two-word phrases (not including imitating or repeating) by 24 months
  • Any loss of speech, babbling or social skills at any age

Centers of Excellence in Washington State

The Washington State Health Care Authority offers an applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy benefit to all Medicaid clients with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. In order for a child to be eligible for ABA therapy through Medicaid, a recognized Center of Excellence (COE) must have conducted a comprehensive evaluation, and written an order for ABA within the last two years. Find Centers of Excellence near you: Center of Excellence (COE) link

More information about the ABA benefit: ABA Providers Directory


Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Despite the fact that most parents felt something was wrong by 18 months of age, most children are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder after 4 years of age.


Information and Support

Northwest Autism Center
Northwest Autism Center

Specific to autism spectrum disorder, this is an integrated community provider of education, service and information for Spokane and the surrounding region

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Early Support for Infants and Toddlers (ESIT)
Early Support for Infants and Toddlers (ESIT)

Early support for infants and toddlers who have disabilities or developmental delays. Families who have concerns about their child’s development can contact the program to receive assistance and information.

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