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Evaluation Cost Guide

Autism Evaluation Cost in Mississippi

In Mississippi, private-pay autism evaluations typically run $1,500–$4,000 (~$2,500 average). Mississippi Medicaid (MississippiCAN) covers evaluations fully for enrolled children under 21. UMMC's Center for Advancement of Youth in Jackson is the flagship in-state center, with 9–18 month waits; many families also use UAB Birmingham, Le Bonheur Memphis, or Children's of New Orleans as out-of-state options.

Quick Answer

In Mississippi, private-pay autism evaluations typically run $1,500–$4,000 (~$2,500 average). Mississippi Medicaid (MississippiCAN) covers evaluations fully for enrolled children under 21. UMMC's Center for Advancement of Youth in Jackson is the flagship in-state center, with 9–18 month waits; many families also use UAB Birmingham, Le Bonheur Memphis, or Children's of New Orleans as out-of-state options.

  • Private-pay range: $1,500-$4,000 (typical about $2,500).
  • Commercial insurance: $0–$1,300 depending on deductible and plan type.
  • Medicaid: covered with a typical copay of $0.

Private-pay (no insurance)

$1,500 – $4,000typical: ~$2,500

For a comprehensive pediatric evaluation (history, ADOS-2, cognitive testing, written report). Updated 2026-04-21.

Commercial Insurance

$0–$1,300 depending on deductible and plan type

Typical out-of-pocket

Mississippi's autism insurance mandate requires state-regulated plans to cover autism services including evaluations. Self-funded ERISA plans are exempt — confirm your plan type with the Mississippi Insurance Department.

Medicaid

$0

Typical copay

Mississippi Medicaid (via MississippiCAN managed care — Magnolia Health, Molina Healthcare, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan) covers diagnostic evaluations under EPSDT for enrolled children under 21.

Wait Times

3–6 months

Private psychologist

Major center: 9–18 months (UMMC Center for Advancement of Youth)

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
9–18 months (UMMC Center for Advancement of Youth)
Private psychologist
3–6 months
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 Mississippi

University of Mississippi Medical Center — Center for Advancement of Youth (CAY)

universitySliding scale

Jackson

Mississippi's flagship academic diagnostic program; accepts Medicaid.

Children's of Mississippi (UMMC)

university

Jackson

Pediatric subspecialty care alongside CAY.

UAB Civitan-Sparks Clinics (Birmingham, AL)

university

Birmingham border

Major regional autism diagnostic center; common out-of-state referral for Mississippi families.

Le Bonheur Children's Hospital (Memphis, TN)

nonprofit

Memphis border — serves northern Mississippi

Children's Hospital of New Orleans / LSU Human Development Center

nonprofit

New Orleans — serves southern Mississippi

Related

Mississippi Medicaid coverage details

Full breakdown of HCBS waivers, ABA benefit rules, and the state insurance mandate.

View Medicaid →

Sources

These sources support the current pricing and coverage context for Mississippi. Always confirm the latest quote directly with the provider before booking.

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