Pediatrician

Autism Awareness : Early Screening is Important

The earlier autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or other developmental concerns are identified, the sooner families can access support services that make a real difference in a child’s growth and development.

Community health centers like Center for Family Health and Education and Priority Care Medical Group play a crucial role by providing these screenings during routine well-child visits at little or no cost to families (depending on eligibility)

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism is a developmental disability that can affect how a child communicates, interacts with others, and processes information from the world around them. Every child with autism is unique — some may have exceptional abilities in certain areas while facing challenges in others.

The key to helping children with autism thrive is early identification and intervention. Research shows that children who receive early support often have better outcomes in school, social skills, and independence as adults.

Why Early Screening Matters

Developmental screenings are quick, simple assessments that pediatricians use during well-child visits (typically at 9, 18, and 24-30 months) to identify children who may need further evaluation. These screenings look for:

No babbling or pointing by 12 months

No single words by 16 months or two-word phrases by 24 months

Little or no eye contact or response to their name

Repetitive movements like hand-flapping or spinning objects

Loss of previously acquired skills (regression)

Difficulty with social interactions or pretend play

Signs to Watch For At Home

Not responding to their name by 12 months

Avoiding eye contact or preferring to play alone

Delayed speech or language skills compared to peers

Repetitive behaviors like lining up toys or spinning wheels

Unusual reactions to sounds, textures, or lights

Difficulty adapting to changes in routine

Trust your instincts as a parent — if something feels “different” about your child’s development, discussing it at the next well-child visit can be the first step toward answers and support.

How Our Clinics Can Help

At Center for Family Health and Education and Priority Care Medical Group, our pediatric team provides:

Developmental screenings at every well-child visit (no extra cost)

Support for families navigating Medi-Cal, regional center services, and community resources

Pediatrician to help guide your childs growth and development

As a Federally Qualified Health Center, we accept Medi-Cal and offer sliding-fee options, so cost never has to prevent your child from getting the screening and follow-up they need. Learn more about our pediatric services at the Autism Screening Pediatricians page.

Getting Started

During National Autism Awareness Month, take these simple steps:

Schedule your child’s next well-child visit if it’s been more than 6 months

Bring a list of any developmental concerns you’ve noticed

Ask specifically about developmental screening — it’s a covered preventive service

Discuss family history of autism or developmental differences

Early identification opens doors to therapies, educational support, and family resources that can dramatically improve outcomes. Don’t wait for problems to become obvious — proactive screening gives children and families the best possible start.

FAQ

1. At what age should my child be screened for autism?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends developmental surveillance at every well-child visit and formal screening at 9, 18, and 24-30 months. However, screening can be done at any age if parents or providers have concerns.

2. Are developmental screenings covered by Medi-Cal?
Yes, developmental screenings are considered preventive services and covered under Medi-Cal at no extra cost during well-child visits. Our clinics also help families understand what other services may be available.

3. Where can I take my child for affordable developmental screening?
Non-profit community health centers like Center for Family Health and Education and Priority Care Medical Group provide pediatric developmental screenings as part of routine well-child care. We accept Medi-Cal and offer sliding-fee options for uninsured families in the Los Angeles area. Call today to schedule your child’s appointment.

References

CDC – Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) : cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/index.html

American Academy of Pediatrics – Autism Screening : aap.org/en/patient-care/autism/screening-and-diagnosis/

National Autism Association – Signs of Autism : nationalautismassociation.org/resources/signs-of-autism/

Autism Speaks – Early Diagnosis : autismspeaks.org/early-diagnosis

Centers for Disease Control – Learn the Signs. Act Early : cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/index.html

References

Pregnancy test: when to take, types & accuracy [Internet]. Cleveland Clinic. [cited 2023 Jan 18]. Available from: my.clevelandclinic.org/ health/articles/9703-pregnancy-tests
What’s an IUD insertion like? [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jan 18]. Available from: plannedparenthood.org/ learn/birth-control/iud/whats-an-iud-insertion-like

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