Autism Evaluation Cost in South Dakota
In South Dakota, a private-pay autism evaluation typically runs $1,500–$4,000. SD's insurance mandate covers state-regulated plans with $0–$1,200 out-of-pocket typical. Medicaid fully covers evaluations for children under 21 via EPSDT. Many families travel to Mayo Clinic, University of Minnesota, or Children's Hospital Colorado for specialty diagnostics.
Quick Answer
In South Dakota, a private-pay autism evaluation typically runs $1,500–$4,000. SD's insurance mandate covers state-regulated plans with $0–$1,200 out-of-pocket typical. Medicaid fully covers evaluations for children under 21 via EPSDT. Many families travel to Mayo Clinic, University of Minnesota, or Children's Hospital Colorado for specialty diagnostics.
- Private-pay range: $1,500-$4,000 (typical about $2,500).
- Commercial insurance: $0–$1,200 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–$1,200 depending on deductible
Typical out-of-pocket
SD's autism insurance mandate requires state-regulated commercial plans to cover autism diagnosis and treatment including ABA. Self-funded ERISA plans are exempt — confirm your plan type.
Medicaid
$0
Typical copay
SD Medicaid covers diagnostic evaluations under EPSDT for enrolled children under 21. Katie Beckett-enrolled children have the same benefit regardless of family income.
Wait Times
3–6 months
Private psychologist
Major center: 6–12 months (Sanford CHILD Services, Avera Behavioral Health, Monument Health)
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
- 6–12 months (Sanford CHILD Services, Avera Behavioral Health, Monument Health)
- Private psychologist
- 3–6 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 South Dakota
LifeScape
Sioux Falls
Nonprofit serving children with disabilities; evaluation and therapy.
Center for Disabilities (USD Sanford School of Medicine)
Sioux Falls
SD's UCEDD; training, evaluation, family navigation, and telehealth.
Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN)
Rochester, MN
Common out-of-state referral for eastern SD families.
Children's Hospital Colorado
Aurora, CO
Common out-of-state referral for western SD families.
Community Mental Health Centers
Statewide
Community mental health centers across SD offer psychological evaluations on sliding scale.
Related
South Dakota 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 South Dakota. Always confirm the latest quote directly with the provider before booking.
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