How much does an autism evaluation cost in Ohio?

In Ohio, a comprehensive private-pay autism evaluation typically costs $1,800–$4,500, with a typical price around $2,800.

Does Ohio Medicaid cover evaluations?

Yes. Ohio Medicaid covers autism evaluations ($0 copay) under EPSDT.

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Evaluation Cost Guide

Autism Evaluation Cost in Ohio

Q: Does insurance cover autism evaluations in Ohio?

$0–$1,200. Ohio Rev. Code § 1751.84/§ 3923.84 requires coverage for autism screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The original law capped coverage through age 14; clinical-criteria coverage extends to other ages based on medical necessity.

In Ohio, private-pay autism evaluations cost $1,800–$4,500 (typical ~$2,800). Ohio's insurance mandate covers evaluations through age 14 without a dollar cap, and Ohio Medicaid covers evaluations fully under EPSDT. The Katie Beckett option supports income-ineligible families.

Quick Answer

Private-pay range: $1,800-$4,500 (typical about $2,800).
Commercial insurance: $0–$1,200.
Medicaid: covered with a typical copay of $0.

Private-pay (no insurance)

$1,800 – $4,500typical: ~$2,800

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

Commercial Insurance

$0–$1,200

Typical out-of-pocket

Ohio Rev. Code § 1751.84/§ 3923.84 requires coverage for autism screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The original law capped coverage through age 14; clinical-criteria coverage extends to other ages based on medical necessity.

Medicaid

Typical copay

Ohio Medicaid covers evaluations under EPSDT via managed care and fee-for-service. The Katie Beckett option allows disabled children to qualify regardless of family income.

Wait Times

3–5 months

Private psychologist

Major center: 8–14 months (Cincinnati Children's Kelly O'Leary Center, Nationwide Children's, Cleveland Clinic Children's)

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: 8–14 months (Cincinnati Children's Kelly O'Leary Center, Nationwide Children's, Cleveland Clinic Children's)
Private psychologist: 3–5 months
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 Ohio

Kelly O'Leary Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders (Cincinnati Children's)

nonprofit

Cincinnati

Accepts Medicaid; comprehensive autism-specialized evaluations.

Nationwide Children's Child Development Center

nonprofit

Columbus

Accepts Medicaid.

OSU Nisonger Center

universitySliding scale

Columbus

University-based sliding scale.

UH Rainbow Babies & Children's / Lerner College of Medicine

university

Cleveland

County Boards of Developmental Disabilities (88 counties)

state funded

Service coordination and sometimes low-cost evaluations referral.

Ohio 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 Ohio. Always confirm the latest quote directly with the provider before booking.

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