Autism Evaluation Cost in New Mexico
In New Mexico, private-pay autism evaluations typically run $1,500–$4,500 (~$2,800 average). Commercial insurance covers evaluations under the state mandate; out-of-pocket runs $0–$1,500. NM Medicaid (Turquoise Care) covers evaluations fully for children under 21 under EPSDT. UNM-CDD is the primary statewide resource, with 12+ month waits common; rural and border-region families often travel to Colorado, Arizona, or El Paso.
Quick Answer
In New Mexico, private-pay autism evaluations typically run $1,500–$4,500 (~$2,800 average). Commercial insurance covers evaluations under the state mandate; out-of-pocket runs $0–$1,500. NM Medicaid (Turquoise Care) covers evaluations fully for children under 21 under EPSDT. UNM-CDD is the primary statewide resource, with 12+ month waits common; rural and border-region families often travel to Colorado, Arizona, or El Paso.
- Private-pay range: $1,500-$4,500 (typical about $2,800).
- 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
New Mexico's autism insurance mandate requires state-regulated plans to cover autism services including evaluations. Self-funded ERISA plans are exempt — confirm your plan type before scheduling.
Medicaid
$0
Typical copay
NM Medicaid (Turquoise Care as of 2024) covers evaluations under EPSDT for enrolled children under 21. Prior auth is typically required for subsequent ABA services but not for the evaluation itself.
Wait Times
3–6 months in Albuquerque and Santa Fe
Private psychologist
Major center: 12+ months (UNM Center for Development and Disability, UNM Health, Presbyterian)
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
- 12+ months (UNM Center for Development and Disability, UNM Health, Presbyterian)
- Private psychologist
- 3–6 months in Albuquerque and Santa Fe
- Telehealth
- 4–8 weeks at UNM ECHO and regional telehealth providers
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 New Mexico
UNM Center for Development and Disability (CDD)
Albuquerque
NM's UCEDD; accepts Medicaid, offers sliding-scale options for qualifying families.
Presbyterian Healthcare Services — Developmental Pediatrics
Albuquerque
Accepts Medicaid and commercial insurance.
Children's Hospital Colorado (Aurora)
Aurora, CO (out of state)
Common referral for northern NM families.
Texas Tech Health Sciences Center — El Paso
El Paso, TX (out of state)
Often the closest specialty option for Las Cruces / southern NM families.
Related
New Mexico 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 New Mexico. Always confirm the latest quote directly with the provider before booking.
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