How to Get an Autism Diagnosis in West Virginia
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 West Virginia, covering Birth to Three early intervention, DHHR DD Waiver services, WV's insurance mandate, and diagnostic centers including WVU Medicine Children's.
- Last updated April 23, 2026.
- Primary topic: how to get autism diagnosis in West Virginia.
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 West Virginia, WVU Medicine Children's in Morgantown is the state's premier academic pediatric resource. West Virginia faces rural access challenges, and telehealth has become an important pathway for families outside the major population centers. WV's insurance mandate covers ABA through age 18.
How to Get an Autism Diagnosis in West Virginia: Your First Steps
Start with your child's pediatrician and request a referral. At the same time, contact West Virginia Birth to Three if your child is under age 3. Call 1-304-558-5388 to start. Free evaluations; no diagnosis required.
For children age 3 and older, contact your local county school system. West Virginia schools must evaluate within 60 days of a written request at no cost.
Search diagnostic providers in West Virginia →
Choosing an Evaluation Center in West Virginia
- WVU Ruby Memorial Hospital / WVU Medicine Children's (Morgantown): West Virginia University's academic children's hospital; the state's flagship autism evaluation resource. 9–14 month waits.
- Thomas Health (Charleston): Primary hub for the Kanawha Valley; developmental pediatrics.
- St. Mary's Medical Center (Huntington): Serves the Tri-State area (WV/KY/OH border).
- CAMC (Charleston Area Medical Center): Additional Charleston option.
- Telehealth: For rural WV families, telehealth evaluations from WV-licensed psychologists are increasingly available and practical.
- Private Practice Psychologists: Limited supply; concentrated in Charleston and Morgantown; typical waits of 2–5 months.
West Virginia-Specific Programs and Rights
West Virginia Birth to Three — Ages 0–3: Call 1-304-558-5388. Free evaluations and services; no diagnosis required.
School System Evaluation — Ages 3–21: 60 days to complete at no cost.
WV DHHR Bureau for Medical Services — All Ages WV provides Medicaid HCBS:
- DD Waiver: Community supports, residential services, and day programs for individuals with developmental disabilities.
- Aged and Disabled Waiver: Personal care and community supports.
- Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities Waiver: Comprehensive services including supported employment.
Contact WV DHHR at 304-558-0684 or your local DHHR office to apply.
WV Division of Rehabilitation Services (WVDRS) — Age 14+: Job coaching and career support.
West Virginia Autism Insurance Mandate: WV's mandate (2011) requires state-regulated health plans to cover autism treatment including ABA through age 18. Self-funded employer ERISA plans may be exempt.