How to Get an Autism Diagnosis in Hawaii
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 Hawaii, covering Early Intervention Section services, DDD Medicaid waivers, HI's insurance mandate, and diagnostic centers including Kapiolani Medical Center in Honolulu.
- Last updated April 23, 2026.
- Primary topic: how to get autism diagnosis in Hawaii.
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 Hawaii, most services are concentrated on Oahu, with more limited availability on the neighbor islands. Hawaii's Early Intervention Section (HEIS) provides free services from birth to age 3, and the Developmental Disabilities Division (DDD) administers Medicaid waiver services statewide. Neighbor island families often need telehealth or travel for specialized evaluations.
How to Get an Autism Diagnosis in Hawaii: Your First Steps
Start with your child's pediatrician and request a referral. At the same time, contact the Hawaii Early Intervention Section (HEIS) if your child is under age 3. Call 1-808-594-0066 to start. Free evaluations; no diagnosis required.
For children age 3 and older, contact your local school complex (Hawaii has a single statewide school district). Hawaii schools must evaluate within 60 days of a written request at no cost.
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Choosing an Evaluation Center in Hawaii
Oahu
- Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children (Honolulu): Hawaii's primary children's hospital; developmental-behavioral pediatrics and autism evaluation program. 9–15 month waits.
- Hawaii Pacific Health / Straub Medical Center (Honolulu): Additional Oahu option.
- Shriners Hospitals for Children Honolulu: Specialty pediatric hospital; some developmental services.
Neighbor Islands Developmental pediatrician supply is very limited on Maui, Big Island, Kauai, and Molokai. Families typically travel to Oahu for comprehensive evaluations. Telehealth from Hawaii-licensed providers is the most practical interim option.
Private Practice Psychologists: Small but growing network on Oahu; typical waits of 2–5 months.
Hawaii-Specific Programs and Rights
Hawaii Early Intervention Section (HEIS) — Ages 0–3: Call 1-808-594-0066. Free evaluations and services; no diagnosis required.
Statewide School Evaluation — Ages 3–21: Hawaii has a single state-administered school system (DOE). Request evaluation through your school complex area. 60 days to complete at no cost.
Developmental Disabilities Division (DDD) — All Ages Hawaii DDD provides Medicaid HCBS:
- Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waiver: Community supports, residential services, day programs, and supported employment.
- Med-QUEST (Hawaii Medicaid): Covers ABA and related services for eligible children with autism.
Contact Hawaii DDD at 808-586-5840 to apply.
Hawaii VR (Vocational Rehabilitation) — Age 14+: Job coaching and career support through the Department of Human Services.
Hawaii Autism Insurance Mandate: Hawaii's mandate (2009) requires state-regulated health plans to cover autism treatment including ABA. Self-funded employer ERISA plans may be exempt.