Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics Evaluation

Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics: Questions Often Asked By Our Families

WHAT IS A DEVELOPMENTAL & BEHAVIORAL PEDIATRIC EVALUATION ALL ABOUT?

Q: Why is my child seeing a Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrician?

A: Your pediatrician or another professional may have referred your child to a Developmental and Behavioral pediatrician for evaluation of a learning, developmental or behavioral problem. The Developmental Behavioral pediatrician will work closely with you and your family to understand your concerns for your child and develop a treatment plan.

Q: What will happen during the evaluation?

A: The evaluation is tailored to your child’s individual needs. A nurse or assistant will check your child’s height, weight, and blood pressure. The physician will review all the information you have provided; ask questions about your concerns and child’s medical history, and perform a physical examination of your child. The physician may give your child instructions to complete various age appropriate activities. Depending on your child and their findings, he/she may see the parent or child individually. The staff will partner with you and document findings on a computer during your session.

Q: Will my child be present when I talk to the physician?

A: Please let the staff know if you do not want to discuss your concerns about your child in front of him or her. It might be helpful to bring another adult to stay with your child so you can talk to the physician privately.

Q: What kinds of testing will my child need?

A: Some additional information may be needed to assess your child’s hearing, speech, movement, learning or behavior. Some medical tests and lab work may also help to provide additional information. Each child is different and you and your physician will decide together what additional testing would be helpful.

Q: How long is the visit?

A: The visit is usually 60-90 minutes. Bring a snack and/or water.

Q: When will I know the results of the evaluation and get a diagnosis?

A: We know that many families would like answers and a specific diagnosis during their first visit. We may not have all the information needed at that time to give a specific diagnosis, but your physician will share with you their initial thoughts. You will partner with your physician to determine what steps are needed to address all your questions and concerns. After all testing is complete; you will meet with your physician for a follow up visit.

Q: When will I get a copy of the evaluation report?

A: A copy of the report will be mailed to you in approximately 4 weeks. If you have an account, visit our Patient Portal at My Children’s Specialized Patient and Family Portal to access the evaluation report. If you do not have an account, please ask a Registration Representative for your patient code.

Q: Do I pre-register?

A: Our scheduling department will obtain insurance information when you call to schedule an appointment. The Patient Access Department will verify your insurance prior to your visit. When you arrive for your appointment, the registration staff will ask you to sign in, copy your license and insurance card and will ask questions regarding preferred contact numbers, employer and where you would like reports sent to.

Q: Do I have to bring my child to CSH, or can another relative bring them?

A: It is a requirement that a parent or legal guardian be present during your child’s evaluation and to sign consent. You have the most helpful information about your child and it is important to have your input.

Q: What do I need to bring?

A: Please bring:

  • A current photo ID (license)
  • Insurance card
  • Referral if needed
  • Prescription
  • School reports (ex. IEP, 504 Plan, Child Study Team Evaluations, Report Cards)
  • Prior evaluations (ex. Psychology, Psychiatry, Neurology, Genetics, Therapies)
  • Name/addresses of individuals you might want the report sent to
  • Current list of medications
  • The questionnaire that was sent to you
  • Bring a backpack with some toys/games for your child and a snack
  • A list of questions to ask the therapist/provider

Q: Will insurance pay for the evaluation?

A: Medical coverage will vary, but health insurance plans cover many of our services. Please contact your insurance company prior to your appointment to verify if your plan offers a benefit for the service for which you are scheduled. Your insurance plan may also require you obtain a referral and/or prior authorization. If an authorization is needed, this will be obtained by the Insurance Verification and Authorization Department.

Created by the Family Advisory Council at Children’s Specialized Hospital, dedicated to collaborating with Hospital leadership and staff -- empowering families to provide valuable input toward improving organizational policies and practices.

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