Getting an autism diagnosis in Grand Rapids

In Grand Rapids, autism evaluations run through a few channels. Corewell Health, including Helen DeVos Children's Hospital, conducts comprehensive developmental evaluations as the region's major pediatric system, though wait times can stretch for months. Independent licensed psychologists and neuropsychologists across Kent County also diagnose, and sometimes have shorter waits or more scheduling flexibility.

For children on Medicaid, there is a distinct route: Network180, Kent County's Community Mental Health agency, arranges autism diagnostic testing for eligible individuals age 20 and under as part of the Medicaid Autism Benefit — note that a physician referral is required to request the testing. A diagnosis obtained this way flows into the same system that funds ABA, which can smooth the transition to treatment. Reach the Network180 Access Center at (616) 336-3909 or (800) 749-7720. And for very young children, Early On Michigan can begin support with no diagnosis at all — more below.