How to Get an Autism Diagnosis in Arkansas
State Regulation & Policy Notice
Rules change by state and year. Last verified April 23, 2026. Confirm eligibility, waitlists, and current application procedures with the linked state department or regional agency.
Quick Answer
A complete guide to autism evaluations in Arkansas, covering First Connections early intervention, DDS ARChoices Waiver, AR's insurance mandate, and diagnostic centers including Arkansas Children's Hospital.
- Last updated April 23, 2026.
- Primary topic: how to get autism diagnosis in Arkansas.
About this information
This educational guide is published by AutismHearts. It has not been independently clinically reviewed. Confirm important medical, legal, benefits, and education decisions with qualified professionals or official agencies.
Medical Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
If you're looking for how to get an autism diagnosis in Arkansas, Arkansas Children's Hospital in Little Rock is the state's only freestanding children's hospital and the primary destination for autism evaluations. Arkansas's insurance mandate (enacted 2011) covers ABA up to $50,000/year — one of the higher caps nationally.
How to Get an Autism Diagnosis in Arkansas: Your First Steps
Start with your child's pediatrician and request a referral. At the same time, contact Arkansas First Connections if your child is under age 3. Call 1-800-643-8258 to start. Free evaluations; no diagnosis required.
For children age 3 and older, contact your local school district. Arkansas districts must evaluate within 60 days of a written request at no cost.
Search diagnostic providers in Arkansas →
Choosing an Evaluation Center in Arkansas
- Arkansas Children's Hospital (Little Rock): The state's only freestanding children's hospital; the primary autism evaluation resource for the entire state. 9–15 month waits. Worth traveling for.
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) (Little Rock): Academic medical center with developmental pediatrics.
- Baptist Health Medical Center (Little Rock): Community option.
- St. Bernards Healthcare (Jonesboro): Primary resource for Northeast Arkansas families.
- Private Practice Psychologists: Limited supply outside Little Rock; typical waits of 3–6 months.
Arkansas-Specific Programs and Rights
Arkansas First Connections — Ages 0–3: Call 1-800-643-8258. Free evaluations and services; no diagnosis required.
School District Evaluation — Ages 3–21: 60 days to complete at no cost.
Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS) — All Ages Arkansas DDS provides Medicaid HCBS through:
- ARChoices in Homecare Waiver: For adults needing personal care and community supports at home.
- TEFRA / Katie Beckett: Medicaid coverage option for children with disabilities whose family income would otherwise disqualify them; allows children to access Medicaid services while living at home.
Contact Arkansas DDS at 501-682-8699 to apply.
Arkansas Division of Workforce Services / VR — Age 14+: Vocational rehabilitation services.
Arkansas Autism Insurance Mandate: AR's mandate (2011) requires state-regulated health plans to cover ABA up to $50,000/year — one of the higher annual caps nationally. Speech, OT, and PT also covered. Self-funded employer ERISA plans may be exempt.