Autism Assessment
Medivik’s autism test child service provides comprehensive paediatric assessment, diagnosis guidance, and ongoing support for children and families across Sydney.
If you have questions, here is a good place to start.
What Is an Autism Assessment?
An autism assessment is a comprehensive evaluation used to identify signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and better understand a child’s communication, behaviour, social interaction, and developmental needs.
When parents look up “autism test child,” they’re usually searching for a quick way to tell if their child is autistic. But it’s important to know that child autism isn’t diagnosed through a single test or online quiz. The process involves developmental screening and diagnostic assessment.
Signs to Get Your Child Tested for Autism
Parents seek autism assessment for many different reasons, and your concerns are valid regardless of when they arise. Common signs that prompt families to seek assessment include:
- Speech or language delay, or loss of previously acquired language skills
- Differences in social interaction, such as limited eye contact or difficulty engaging with other children
- Repetitive behaviours or movements, like hand flapping or lining up toys
- Intense or unusual interests that seem out of proportion to the child's age
- Sensory sensitivities, such as being overwhelmed by loud noises or particular textures
- Concerns raised by childcare educators, teachers, or family members
It’s worth remembering that early assessment doesn’t automatically mean a diagnosis. However, seeking professional guidance early means you can access appropriate support for your child’s specific needs, regardless of the outcome.
Specialist Paediatrician for Autism Testing
Dr Vivek Akkera is a Consultant General Paediatrician experienced in autism assessment and developmental care for children. At Medivik, he provides Sydney families thorough evidence-based assessment with clear guidance on diagnosis, therapy pathways, school support, and long-term management.
- Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (FRACP)
- Nearly 10 years within the Sydney Children’s Hospital Network and The Children’s Hospital at Westmead
- Specialised training in ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition)
- Member of the Australasian Society for Developmental Paediatrics (ASDP)
- Experience assessing autism, developmental concerns, behavioural challenges, and learning difficulties
- Supports families with diagnosis guidance, therapy referrals, school accommodations, and NDIS-related documentation where appropriate
Why Choose Dr Akkera and Medivik for Autism Assessment
Medivik provides autism assessment with a neurodiversity-affirming, child-focused approach led by Consultant Paediatrician Dr Vivek Akkera. Families benefit from specialised expertise in child development, longer consultations for thorough assessment, and shorter wait times compared to many assessment pathways.
Neurodiversity-Affirming Care
Assessments focus on understanding your child’s strengths, support needs, communication style, and development in a respectful, supportive environment.
Child Development Expertise
Dr Akkera is a Consultant General Paediatrician with significant experience in developmental and behavioural concerns in children, and not just autism testing alone.
Longer Appointments, Shorter Wait Times
Medivik offers long 40-minute consultations for comprehensive assessment while aiming to reduce delays in accessing autism assessment, therapy planning, and ongoing support.
Could your child be dealing with autism?
Medivik's Autism Test (Child) Process
Dr Akkera’s autism assessment process is systematic and thorough, designed to give you a clear understanding of your child’s development:
1. Booking Your Appointment
When you contact Medivik, our team will discuss your concerns and book an appropriate appointment time. It's helpful at this stage to mention specific developmental worries.
2. Preparing for the Assessment
Before your appointment, you'll be asked to gather relevant information including previous medical reports or developmental assessments, and notes about specific behaviours or concerns you've observed.
3. Standardised Questionnaires
You may be asked to complete validated parent and/or teacher questionnaires that help build a comprehensive picture of your child's development across different settings.
4. Clinical Assessment and Observation
During the appointment, Dr Akkera will take a detailed developmental history, asking about milestones and progression. He'll observe your child's behaviour, communication, and interaction patterns, and assess social communication skills and play behaviours.
5. Feedback, Diagnosis, and Next Steps
Following the assessment, Dr Akkera will discuss his findings with you. If diagnostic criteria are met, he'll explain what this means for your child. If not, he'll provide guidance on what support might still be beneficial and whether ongoing monitoring is recommended.
6. Support After Assessment
Whether or not your child receives an autism diagnosis, Dr Akkera provides guidance on appropriate next steps. This may include referrals to therapies, information about NDIS access, educational support strategies, or recommendations for ongoing developmental monitoring.
Tell Us How We Can Help
Parent Form
- Monday to Friday 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
- 509/8 Elizabeth Macarthur Drive, Bella Vista
- 33 Dangar Rd, Singleton
- GF/69 Central Coast Hwy, West Gosford
- 02 8530 8312
- 02 7249 3080
- info@medivik.com.au
- medivik.com.au
After Hours
Medivik is a specialist clinic and does not provide emergency care. For urgent medical concerns, please contact your GP, visit your nearest hospital emergency department, or call 000.
Doctor Referral Form
Contact Information
- Monday to Friday 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
- 509/8 Elizabeth Macarthur Drive, Bella Vista
- 33 Dangar Rd, Singleton
- GF/69 Central Coast Hwy, West Gosford
- 02 8530 8312
- 02 7249 3080
- info@medivik.com.au
- medivik.com.au
After Hours
Medivik is a specialist clinic and does not provide emergency care. For urgent medical concerns, please contact your GP, visit your nearest hospital emergency department, or call 000.
Frequently Asked Questions About Autism Test (Child)
Can I get my child tested for autism?
Yes, any parent or caregiver concerned about their child’s development can seek an autism assessment. If you’re noticing developmental differences or have concerns about your child’s communication, social interaction, or behaviour patterns, it’s appropriate to seek professional assessment. Early assessment is beneficial even if your child doesn’t meet criteria for autism, as it can identify other support needs.
How is a child tested for autism?
Autism assessment is developmental and observational rather than a single medical test. The process involves gathering information from multiple sources: parent interviews about developmental history, direct observation of your child’s behaviour and communication, standardised questionnaires, and sometimes input from educators or other professionals who know your child well. The paediatrician uses this information alongside their clinical expertise and diagnostic criteria to determine whether autism is present.
How much is an autism assessment?
The cost of an autism assessment in Australia varies depending on the specialist, the number of appointments required, and whether allied health assessments are involved. Medicare rebates apply to paediatrician consultations with a valid GP referral, reducing out-of-pocket costs.
At Medivik, the autism assessment cost for paediatrician consultations throughout the full pathway typically ranges from $1,035.80 to $1,302.80 out-of-pocket, depending on the number of review appointments required.
What is autism caused by?
Autism has a strong genetic basis, with research suggesting that multiple genes combine and interact to influence development. However, there’s no single gene responsible for autism. It’s important to know that autism is not caused by parenting styles, vaccines, or diet. While we understand that autism involves differences in how the brain develops and processes information, scientists are still researching the complex factors involved. What we do know is that early support makes a meaningful difference regardless of the underlying causes.
How is autism different from ADHD?
Autism and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) are distinct conditions, though they can occur together in the same child. Autism primarily involves differences in social communication and the presence of repetitive behaviours or restricted interests. ADHD is characterised by difficulties with attention, impulse control, and hyperactivity. While both conditions can affect learning and behaviour, the core challenges are different. Some children meet criteria for both autism and ADHD, which is why thorough assessment by an experienced autism or ADHD paediatrician is important to identify all your child’s needs and ensure appropriate support.