Autism Awareness Month may be in April, but local healthcare providers say awareness and early action should happen year-round.
Montgomery County Memorial Hospital and Clinics is expanding access to autism diagnostic services locally, helping families avoid long wait times and get answers sooner.
- Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting communication and behavior
- Early signs often appear before age 3
- Diagnosis process includes:
- Parent interview (about 2 hours)
- Child interaction assessment (about 1 hour)
- Typically 3–4 total appointments
- Autism spectrum includes three levels (1–3) of support needs
- Early intervention is critical:
- Speech therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Behavioral therapy
- Local services available at:
- Villisca Medical Clinic
- Montgomery County Memorial Hospital specialty clinics
- Wait times elsewhere can be up to one year
- Referrals can be made through:
- Primary care provider
- Direct call to clinic
