Diagnosis Pathway
Understanding Your Child’s Diagnostic Journey
18+ Years Referral
If you think you may be autistic, you can make an appointment to discuss the signs with your GP.
They will give you a short quiz to complete. Based on the results of this, your GP may refer you onto the Autism diagnostic pathway.
NHS waiting lists are long, but there are other options:
Right to choose – Your GP can refer you to a private company for your diagnosis. The cost of this will be covered by the NHS, and once you have received a diagnosis, they will refer you back to the NHS.
Private Companies – You can also choose to undertake the journey in the private sector. The process for this will be different depending on the company.
During the diagnostic process, you will be asked to complete more forms, and you will likely undergo an Autism Assessment. There is more information on this on the Forms page.
5-18 Years Referral
Speak with your SENCO in your child’s school about autistic signs you have noticed. These signs may have also been noticed there. The SENCO will refer your child to the appropiate team.
Alternatively, you can arrange an appointment with your child’s GP. During the consultation your GP will discuss these signs with you.
If you live in Devon (not including Plymouth): You can self-refer your child, or will be referred, to Child & Family Health Devon
If you live in Plymouth: Your child will be referred to Livewell
You will be asked to complete some forms on behalf of your child, more information can be found here
If you score within the limits for autistic traits your child will be referred down the Diagnostic pathway
Waiting lists are long, there are other options:
Right to choose – You can ask your GP to refer you to a private company which the NHS would pay for your diagnosis (waiting times are typically shorter). However, you would need to be refered back to the NHS for shared Care post diagnosis
You will then be asked to complete some further forms, more information can be found here
Under 5 Years Referral
Speak with your SENCO in your child’s school about autistic signs you have noticed. These signs may have also been noticed there. The SENCO will refer your child to the appropiate team.
Alternatively, you can arrange an appointment with your child’s GP. During the consultation your GP will discuss these signs with you.
If you live in Devon (not including Plymouth): You can self-refer your child, or will be referred, to Child & Family Health Devon
If you live in Plymouth: Your child will be referred to Livewell
You will be asked to complete some forms on behalf of your child, more information can be found here
If you score within the limits for autistic traits your child will be referred down the Diagnostic pathway
Waiting lists are long, there are other options:
Right to choose – You can ask your GP to refer you to a private company which the NHS would pay for your diagnosis (waiting times are typically shorter). However, you would need to be refered back to the NHS for shared Care post diagnosis
You will then be asked to complete some further forms, more information can be found here