Autism Evaluation Cost in North Carolina
North Carolina private-pay autism evaluations run $1,800–$4,500. NC GS 58-3-192 caps commercial coverage at $40K/year through age 18. UNC TEACCH's 8 regional centers provide sliding-scale evaluations statewide — a resource unique to NC.
Quick Answer
North Carolina private-pay autism evaluations run $1,800–$4,500. NC GS 58-3-192 caps commercial coverage at $40K/year through age 18. UNC TEACCH's 8 regional centers provide sliding-scale evaluations statewide — a resource unique to NC.
- Private-pay range: $1,800-$4,500 (typical about $2,800).
- Commercial insurance: $0–$1,300 depending on deductible.
- 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–$1,300 depending on deductible
Typical out-of-pocket
NC GS 58-3-192 caps autism services at $40K/year through age 18 on state-regulated plans. Federal ERISA self-funded plans are exempt.
Medicaid
$0
Typical copay
NC Medicaid Tailored Plans (LME-MCOs) cover evaluations. Most families access diagnostics via their LME-MCO provider network.
Wait Times
3–6 months; 4–8 weeks in more rural regions
Private psychologist
Major center: 8–16 months (UNC TEACCH, Duke CABD)
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
- 8–16 months (UNC TEACCH, Duke CABD)
- Private psychologist
- 3–6 months; 4–8 weeks in more rural regions
- Telehealth
- 4–8 weeks
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 North Carolina
UNC TEACCH Regional Centers (8 locations statewide)
Statewide
Flagship NC autism program with regional access and sliding-scale options.
Duke Center for Autism and Brain Development
Durham
Research participation may cover evaluation costs for qualifying children.
ECU Pediatrics — Developmental/Behavioral Clinic
Greenville
Wake Forest Baptist Health — Developmental Pediatrics
Winston-Salem
Autism Society of North Carolina
Statewide
Referrals and family navigator support, not direct evaluation.
Related
North Carolina 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 North Carolina. Always confirm the latest quote directly with the provider before booking.
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