Paediatrician vs. developmental paediatrician for autism in Ontario

Yes. Ontario lists pediatricians among the qualified professionals who can diagnose autism. For OAP registration, the written diagnosis must include your child's full name and date of birth, the assessment date, a statement that the child meets the diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorder, and the professional's name and credentials. Comfort and experience with autism assessment varies, so ask whether your paediatrician assesses autism or would refer you.

A developmental paediatrician is a paediatrician with additional training in child development and neurodevelopmental conditions. Autism is one of many conditions they assess.

Wait times differ by clinic and region, so ask your doctor and the clinic for the current wait. Ontario's five diagnostic hubs, in Hamilton, Barrie, Sudbury, Ottawa and Toronto, each list their own intake contact.

Yes. OHIP covers both general paediatrician and developmental paediatrician assessments when the assessment is medically necessary. Private psychologist assessments are not OHIP-covered.

For straightforward presentations in young children with clear early signs, a general paediatrician who is experienced with autism can provide a timely, valid diagnosis. For subtle or complex presentations, or where co-occurring ADHD, intellectual disability, or anxiety is suspected, a paediatrician may refer the child to a developmental paediatrician or a specialized diagnostic team. A written diagnosis from either can be used to register with AccessOAP if it includes the required details.