UT Southwestern and Children's Health℠ Center for Autism Care referral information

A good place to start for most families is to get an understanding of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or other suspected developmental disorders. Early diagnosis and treatment are extremely important, so if you or your pediatrician have concerns, it is important to act and schedule an evaluation rather than wait. However, because wait times can often be lengthy, here is additional information for steps that you can take while you wait.

  • What is the referral process for the Center for Autism Care?

    • Referral form completed by primary care provider (PCP)
    • Fax the completed form along with all the necessary records to 214-867-5389.
    This information allows our team to make sure your family’s needs are best served within our Center and which provider is most appropriate to meet those needs. All information is required before the review process will begin and an appointment can be scheduled. Please allow 2-4 weeks after ALL information is received.

  • What records are needed so than an appointment can be scheduled?

    Patients Ages 0-3

    • Medical records including any MRIs, EEGs, and blood work
    • Any prior evaluations, if available (e.g., Early Childhood Intervention, therapies, Ages and Stages Questionnaire-3)
    • For Autism Spectrum Disorders: ASD screeners (e.g., Failed MCHAT for toddlers OR pediatrician’s statement of suspicion of autism)

    Patients Ages 3 and up

    • School records (FIE [evaluation] and ARD records)
    • Medical records including all MRIs, EEGs, and blood work
    • Any prior evaluations, if available

  • What can I do while I wait?

    Contact the following for an evaluation for community or school-based services:

    • Early Childhood Intervention [ECI; ages 0-3]
      1-800-628-5115.
    • Preschool Program for Children with Disabilities [PPCD; ages 3-5]
      If you live in Dallas, Collin, Ellis, Kaufman, Rockwall, Hunt, Fannin and Grayson Counties call 972-348-1664 or 972-348-1600 (director of preschool services). If you live in Tarrant, Denton, Cooke, Wise, Parker, Johnson, Hood, Somervell, Erath and Palo Pinto Counties 817-740-7551
    • Public school special education [ages 5+]
      contact your local school district
    You can also contact SPEDTEX for special education in Texas at 1-855-773-3839 (855-SPEDTEX) or visit their website.

  • What are some additional evaluations that can be done while I wait?

    Consider hearing and vision screenings. You may need to contact your pediatrician for a referral. If your child is experiencing delays in communication or motor skills, contact your pediatrician for a referral for occupational, speech, or physical therapy.

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