End the Wait Ontario
End the Wait Ontario
The waitlist for core autism services has swelled dramatically. The provincial watchdog reported 70,176 children registered in the OAP by late 2023. Because invitations to core services are limited, thousands of children remain unserved at any given time, creating a multi-year backlog.
Source: FAO Report 2023-24 · View SourceNavigating the path from "I have a concern" to "Diagnosis Confirmed."
The journey to an autism diagnosis in Ontario is often described as a maze. It involves multiple professionals, varying waitlists, and a choice between public (free) and private (paid) routes. This guide clarifies the timeline so you can make informed decisions.
Key takeaway: The "wait" often happens twice—first for the diagnosis, and second for services. For data on the second wait, see our report on Ontario Autism Wait Times.
It starts with a concern. Whether from a parent, teacher, or daycare provider, the first official step is speaking to your family doctor or pediatrician.
You must get a referral from a GP to see a Developmental Pediatrician or Psychiatrist.
Cost: Free (OHIP)You can contact a private psychologist directly. Some insurance plans require a doctor's note for reimbursement.
Cost: $2,500 - $4,000This is the first major bottleneck.
Warning: Many regional diagnostic bubs have closed their waitlists entirely due to demand. Always check the current status of the provider you are referred to.
Once you receive the written diagnosis report (confirming ASD), you must immediately register with the Ontario Autism Program (OAP).
Contact AccessOAP central intake to open a file.
This places you on the services waitlist. Learn more about the Services Waitlist here.
Submit the report to your school principal to start the IPRC process.
There are things you can do right now to help your child, even without a formal diagnosis on paper.
See the Action PlanEndTheWaitOntario.com is committed to accuracy. Our data is independently verified against official government reports, scientific literature, and accessible public records.
The waitlist for core autism services has swelled dramatically. The provincial watchdog reported 70,176 children registered in the OAP by late 2023. Because invitations to core services are limited, thousands of children remain unserved at any given time, creating a multi-year backlog.
Source: FAO Report 2023-24 · View SourceNavigating the path from "I have a concern" to "Diagnosis Confirmed."
The journey to an autism diagnosis in Ontario is often described as a maze. It involves multiple professionals, varying waitlists, and a choice between public (free) and private (paid) routes. This guide clarifies the timeline so you can make informed decisions.
Key takeaway: The "wait" often happens twice—first for the diagnosis, and second for services. For data on the second wait, see our report on Ontario Autism Wait Times.
It starts with a concern. Whether from a parent, teacher, or daycare provider, the first official step is speaking to your family doctor or pediatrician.
You must get a referral from a GP to see a Developmental Pediatrician or Psychiatrist.
Cost: Free (OHIP)You can contact a private psychologist directly. Some insurance plans require a doctor's note for reimbursement.
Cost: $2,500 - $4,000This is the first major bottleneck.
Warning: Many regional diagnostic bubs have closed their waitlists entirely due to demand. Always check the current status of the provider you are referred to.
Once you receive the written diagnosis report (confirming ASD), you must immediately register with the Ontario Autism Program (OAP).
Contact AccessOAP central intake to open a file.
This places you on the services waitlist. Learn more about the Services Waitlist here.
Submit the report to your school principal to start the IPRC process.
There are things you can do right now to help your child, even without a formal diagnosis on paper.
See the Action PlanEndTheWaitOntario.com is committed to accuracy. Our data is independently verified against official government reports, scientific literature, and accessible public records.