How Much Does Autism Diagnosis Cost in Ontario?

OHIP covers psychiatry assessments (when referred by your family doctor or pediatrician) but does not cover private psychological assessments. Hospital-based assessments at programs like SickKids, CHEO, or McMaster Children's are publicly funded and cost $0, but the wait times are typically 3 to 5 years.

Yes. A private diagnosis from a registered psychologist or psychiatrist using DSM-5 criteria is fully accepted for OAP registration with AccessOAP. Many families pursue private assessment specifically to get on the OAP waitlist sooner, since waitlist position is determined by registration date.

The least costly route is a hospital-based assessment ($0 with OHIP coverage), but these programs typically have 3 to 5 year wait times. A psychiatry assessment (covered by OHIP with a referral) may be faster, approximately 1 to 2 years in most regions. Community health centres may also offer sliding-scale or lower-cost assessments depending on location and eligibility.

OHIP does not cover private psychological assessments. However, employer-provided extended health benefits plans may include coverage for "psychological services", check the specific wording of your plan. Health Spending Accounts (HSAs) offered through employer plans are also eligible for private psychological assessment costs.

A comprehensive private autism assessment typically includes: a clinical interview with parents and the child, standardized diagnostic instruments such as the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule), cognitive and adaptive behaviour testing, a full written report with diagnosis and recommendations. A partial assessment may include only the ADOS-2 or a clinical interview without full cognitive testing.