Frequently Asked Questions for Qualified Professionals - Autism Assessments

1. Who can complete a non-BCAAN (private) autism diagnostic assessment?  

Assessments must be conducted by a qualified BC specialist (Pediatrician, Psychiatrist or Registered Psychologist) trained in the use of the assessment tools:  

• The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), and  
• The Autism Diagnostic Interview-revised (ADI-r) 

All assessments for children of any age for the purpose of diagnosis must include the implementation of both assessment tools.  

2. Does the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) accept virtual autism diagnostic assessments?   

MCFD does not currently accept virtual autism assessments.   

The diagnostic assessment must include two specific components to meet MCFD requirements: The Autism Diagnostic Interview–Revised (ADI-R) and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS). The ADOS has not been validated for use by virtual means.  

3. Does MCFD accept short form autism diagnostic assessments for children diagnosed in British Columbia?  

MCFD does not currently accept short form assessments, including hospital discharge summaries.  

All completed assessment reports must be submitted, along with necessary documentation, to the child’s local MCFD office before the family is able to apply for autism programs.  

For children under the age of 6, the assessment must show a multidisciplinary diagnosis of autism, including psychological, pediatric, and speech-language pathology assessment reports. 

The ministry is undertaking a full review of autism forms to streamline and update information and language.