Autism Evaluation Cost in Kentucky
In Kentucky, private-pay autism evaluations typically run $1,800–$4,500. The 2010 state mandate requires commercial plans to cover autism services. Kentucky Medicaid covers evaluations fully for enrolled children, and the Katie Beckett (TEFRA) option extends Medicaid coverage to middle-income families.
Quick Answer
In Kentucky, private-pay autism evaluations typically run $1,800–$4,500. The 2010 state mandate requires commercial plans to cover autism services. Kentucky Medicaid covers evaluations fully for enrolled children, and the Katie Beckett (TEFRA) option extends Medicaid coverage to middle-income families.
- Private-pay range: $1,800-$4,500 (typical about $2,900).
- Commercial insurance: $0–$1,500 depending on deductible and plan type.
- Medicaid: covered with a typical copay of $0.
Private-pay (no insurance)
For a comprehensive pediatric evaluation (history, ADOS-2, cognitive testing, written report). Updated 2026-04-21.
Commercial Insurance
$0–$1,500 depending on deductible and plan type
Typical out-of-pocket
Kentucky's 2010 autism insurance mandate (KRS Chapter 304) requires state-regulated plans to cover diagnosis and treatment of autism (including ABA), subject to statutory limits. Self-funded ERISA plans are exempt — verify plan type.
Medicaid
$0
Typical copay
Kentucky Medicaid MCOs cover evaluations under EPSDT for enrolled children under 21. Families not otherwise eligible can apply through Katie Beckett (TEFRA) to qualify based on the child's needs.
Wait Times
3–6 months in Louisville/Lexington; longer in rural areas
Private psychologist
Major center: 9–15 months (UofL Weisskopf Child Evaluation Center, UK Kentucky Children's Hospital, Norton Children's, Cincinnati Children's for NKY)
Editorial Review
Cost ranges on this page are directional estimates compiled from published price lists, public fee schedules, and manual review.
Actual charges depend on the provider, testing scope, insurance contract, and your deductible or network status. Confirm fees and prior authorization requirements before scheduling.
Last reviewed 2026-04-21 by Autism Hearts Editorial Team
Wait Times by Provider Type
- Major medical center
- 9–15 months (UofL Weisskopf Child Evaluation Center, UK Kentucky Children's Hospital, Norton Children's, Cincinnati Children's for NKY)
- Private psychologist
- 3–6 months in Louisville/Lexington; longer in rural areas
- Telehealth
- 4–8 weeks at telehealth-first practices
Getting on multiple waitlists simultaneously is strongly recommended. Telehealth and private-practice waits are often significantly shorter than academic medical centers.
Low-Cost & Free Evaluation Options in Kentucky
UofL Weisskopf Child Evaluation Center
Louisville
Accepts Medicaid.
UK Human Development Institute (HDI / UCEDD) & Kentucky Children's Hospital
Lexington
Accepts Medicaid.
Katie Beckett (TEFRA) Medicaid option
Lets children with significant disabilities qualify for Medicaid based on the child's needs rather than family income.
Kentucky Autism Training Center (KATC) at UofL
Louisville
Training and navigation support; not a diagnostic clinic but helps families find evaluators.
Easterseals West Kentucky
Paducah
Regional evaluations and family services.
Related
Kentucky Medicaid coverage details
Full breakdown of HCBS waivers, ABA benefit rules, and the state insurance mandate.
Sources
These sources support the current pricing and coverage context for Kentucky. Always confirm the latest quote directly with the provider before booking.
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