How to Get an Autism Diagnosis in Kansas
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 Kansas, covering Infant-Toddler Services early intervention, the Kansas Autism Waiver, KS's insurance mandate, and diagnostic centers including Children's Mercy Kansas City.
- Last updated April 23, 2026.
- Primary topic: how to get autism diagnosis in Kansas.
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 Kansas, the state is served by Children's Mercy Kansas City — which straddles the KS/MO border and is one of the country's top-ranked children's hospitals. Kansas has a dedicated Autism Waiver, one of the few state-specific autism Medicaid waivers in the country.
How to Get an Autism Diagnosis in Kansas: Your First Steps
Start with your child's pediatrician and request a referral. At the same time, contact Kansas Infant-Toddler Services if your child is under age 3. Call 1-800-332-6262 to start. Free evaluations; no prior diagnosis required.
For children age 3 and older, contact your local school district. Kansas districts must evaluate within 60 days of a written request at no cost.
Search diagnostic providers in Kansas →
Choosing an Evaluation Center in Kansas
- Children's Mercy Kansas City (Kansas City, KS/MO border): One of the top ten children's hospitals in the country; exceptional autism evaluation program. 10–16 month waits.
- University of Kansas Medical Center (Kansas City, KS): Strong academic program affiliated with KU Health System.
- Stormont Vail Health (Topeka): Good option for Northeast Kansas families outside the KC metro.
- Wesley Medical Center (Wichita): Primary pediatric hub for South Central Kansas.
- Private Practice Psychologists: Network concentrated in the KC metro (Overland Park, Lenexa) and Wichita; typical waits of 2–4 months.
Kansas-Specific Programs and Rights
Kansas Infant-Toddler Services — Ages 0–3: Call 1-800-332-6262. Free evaluations and services; no diagnosis required.
School District Evaluation — Ages 3–21: 60 days to complete at no cost.
Kansas KDADS Medicaid Waivers — All Ages Kansas offers several HCBS options including a rare autism-specific waiver:
- Kansas Autism Waiver: A dedicated Medicaid waiver specifically for individuals with autism spectrum disorder; covers ABA therapy, respite care, and behavioral supports. Contact KDADS to apply.
- Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) Waiver: Broader DD waiver covering residential, day services, and employment.
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Waiver: For individuals with acquired brain injuries.
Contact Kansas KDADS at 785-296-4986 or your local Community Developmental Disability Organization (CDDO) to apply.
Kansas Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) — Age 14+: Job coaching and career support through Kansas DCF.
Kansas Autism Insurance Mandate: KS's mandate (2009) requires state-regulated health plans to cover autism treatment including ABA up to $36,000/year. Self-funded employer ERISA plans may be exempt.