How to Get an Autism Diagnosis in Louisiana
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 Louisiana, covering Early Steps early intervention, OCDD NOW Waiver services, LA's insurance mandate, and diagnostic centers including Children's Hospital New Orleans.
- Last updated April 23, 2026.
- Primary topic: how to get autism diagnosis in Louisiana.
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 Louisiana, the state provides early intervention through Louisiana Early Steps and adult developmental disability services through the Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities (OCDD). Louisiana's primary adult HCBS waiver is the New Opportunities Waiver (NOW), which has a significant waitlist — apply as early as possible.
How to Get an Autism Diagnosis in Louisiana: Your First Steps
Start with your child's pediatrician and request a referral. At the same time, contact Louisiana Early Steps if your child is under age 3. Call 1-800-922-3425 to start. Free evaluations; no prior diagnosis required.
For children age 3 and older, contact your local school board. Louisiana school boards must evaluate within 60 days of a written request at no cost.
Search diagnostic providers in Louisiana →
Choosing an Evaluation Center in Louisiana
- Children's Hospital New Orleans (New Orleans): The state's main pediatric hospital; autism evaluation program. 9–15 month waits.
- LSU Health Sciences Center (New Orleans and Shreveport): Academic medical centers with developmental pediatrics programs.
- Tulane Medical Center (New Orleans): Good option for the New Orleans metro.
- Willis-Knighton Health System (Shreveport): Primary hub for Northwest Louisiana.
- Private Practice Psychologists: Growing network in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Shreveport; typical waits of 2–5 months.
Louisiana-Specific Programs and Rights
Louisiana Early Steps — Ages 0–3: Call 1-800-922-3425. Free evaluations and services; no diagnosis required.
School Board Evaluation — Ages 3–21: 60 days to complete at no cost.
Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities (OCDD) — All Ages OCDD provides Medicaid HCBS waiver services:
- New Opportunities Waiver (NOW): Louisiana's primary HCBS waiver; covers supported employment, residential services, day activities, and respite. Waitlists are significant — apply through your regional OCDD office immediately.
- Supports Waiver: Lighter-touch community supports for eligible individuals.
- Community Supports Waiver: Crisis and emergency supports.
Contact your regional OCDD office or call 225-342-0095 to apply.
Louisiana Rehabilitation Services (LRS) — Age 14+: Job coaching and career planning.
Louisiana Autism Insurance Mandate: LA's mandate (2008) requires state-regulated health plans to cover autism diagnosis and treatment including ABA. Self-funded employer ERISA plans may be exempt.