How to Get an Autism Diagnosis in Indiana
Last updated April 23, 2026 - Reviewed by Autism Hearts Editorial Team
Quick Answer
A complete guide to autism evaluations in Indiana, covering First Steps early intervention, BDDS Medicaid waivers, IN's insurance mandate, and diagnostic centers including Riley Hospital for Children at IU Health.
- Reviewed by Autism Hearts Editorial Team.
- Last updated April 23, 2026.
- Primary topic: how to get autism diagnosis in Indiana.
Editorial Review
This guide is reviewed by the Autism Hearts editorial team and written to help families move from research into practical next steps.
It is educational content and should not replace medical, legal, insurance, or educational advice from licensed professionals and official state agencies.
Last reviewed April 23, 2026 by Autism Hearts Editorial Team
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 Indiana, the state has a well-established Early Intervention program called First Steps and a developmental disability services system through the Bureau of Developmental Disability Services (BDDS) under the Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA). Indiana was also among the early adopters of autism insurance mandates, with legislation passed in 2001.
How to Get an Autism Diagnosis in Indiana: Your First Steps
Start with your child's pediatrician. Bring specific written observations of concerns and request a referral to a developmental pediatrician or licensed psychologist for a comprehensive autism evaluation.
At the same time, contact Indiana First Steps if your child is under age 3. First Steps is Indiana's IDEA Part C Early Intervention program. Call 1-800-441-7837 to start. Free evaluations; no autism diagnosis required. Services begin within 30 days of the IFSP.
For children age 3 and older, contact your local school corporation. Indiana school corporations must evaluate children suspected of having disabilities at no cost within 50 school days of a written request.
Search diagnostic providers in Indiana →
Choosing an Evaluation Center in Indiana
Indianapolis Area
- Riley Hospital for Children at IU Health (Indianapolis): Indiana's flagship children's hospital; consistently ranked among the best in the country. Their developmental pediatrics program is the state's premier resource for autism evaluations. 10–16 month waits.
- Peyton Manning Children's Hospital at St. Vincent (Indianapolis): Strong alternative in Indianapolis; developmental-behavioral pediatrics. 8–14 month waits.
- Eskenazi Health (Indianapolis): Public health system with strong Medicaid access; shorter waits for eligible patients.
Fort Wayne / Northeast Indiana
- Parkview Mirro Center for Research and Innovation / Parkview Health (Fort Wayne): Primary hub for Northeast Indiana families.
- Lutheran Hospital (Fort Wayne): Additional option.
South Bend / Northwest Indiana
- Memorial Hospital of South Bend: Developmental pediatrics program.
- Multiple providers in the Chicago-adjacent Northwest Indiana (Lake/Porter counties) — many families access Chicago-area programs.
Private Practice Psychologists Indiana has a solid network of licensed psychologists across Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, and other metro areas. Typical waits of 2–4 months.
Indiana-Specific Programs and Rights (Apply Immediately)
Indiana First Steps — Ages 0–3 Free early intervention for children under 3. Call 1-800-441-7837. Service coordinators develop the IFSP and arrange services. No prior diagnosis needed.
School Corporation Evaluation — Ages 3–21 Submit a written evaluation request; the school corporation has 50 school days to complete it at no cost. IEP rights apply.
Bureau of Developmental Disability Services (BDDS) — All Ages Indiana's BDDS within FSSA provides Medicaid HCBS waiver services for individuals with developmental disabilities including autism:
- Family Support Waiver (FSW): For individuals living with family; covers respite care, day services, and skill building. No waitlist as of recent years for FSW.
- Community Integration and Habilitation (CIH) Waiver: For individuals needing more extensive supports including residential services and day programs. Waitlists can exist — apply early.
- Autism Waiver (IN): Indiana has a specific waiver targeting ABA and behavioral supports for children and adults with autism.
To apply for BDDS services, contact your regional BDDS office or call 1-800-545-7763.
Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) — Age 14+ Indiana VR (through the Division of Disability and Rehabilitative Services) provides job coaching, education funding, and career planning for autistic teens and adults.
Indiana Autism Insurance Mandate Indiana was an early adopter of autism insurance coverage, with legislation enacted in 2001. State-regulated health insurance plans must cover autism diagnosis and treatment including ABA therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy. Coverage applies to children; check your specific plan for age limits. Self-funded employer ERISA plans may be exempt — check your plan documents.
Indiana Resource Center for Autism (IRCA) IRCA, based at Indiana University in Bloomington, is Indiana's primary autism training and resource center. Their resource database and consultants can connect families to evaluators, service providers, and school supports across the state.
What to Expect During an Autism Evaluation in Indiana
A comprehensive evaluation includes parent interview, cognitive testing, adaptive behavior assessment (Vineland-3), ADOS-2 and/or ADI-R, direct observation, and a written report (2–6 weeks after testing).
Once you have the report, bring it to your BDDS regional office, school corporation, insurance company, and therapy providers.