PREPARING FOR YOUR DEVELOPMENTAL ASSESSMENT VISIT

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QUESTIONS YOUR CHILD MAY HAVE ABOUT THE VISIT:

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Q. Why am I going to the doctor, I don’t feel sick?

A. Going to a doctor can be scary, it can make children nervous, or they

may be annoyed. It is a good idea to explain to your child why they are

going in the simplest terms. “We are going to meet a new doctor

tomorrow. We will talk, draw, play, and have fun! She will help you to

learn how to be the best you.”

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Q. Will it hurt? Are there shots?

A. Nothing at this clinic will hurt you. There will be no shots!

 

THINGS YOU MAY WANT TO BRING

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You are encouraged to upload any previous evaluations or documents that

we should review ahead of time through our secure patient portal. If you

cannot, then please bring them with you.

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You may want to bring a snack or something to drink. We do ask that you

refrain from bringing sugary dark colored drinks that can stain (e.g. grape

juice, fruit punch.)

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We strongly encourage you to bring only the child being seen.

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If your child is anxious, you are welcome to bring a toy or object that helps

them feel secure

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THE INITIAL CONSULTATION

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FIRST VISIT: HISTORY AND NEURODEVELOPMENTAL EXAM (90 MINUTES)



We will review any reports or information you provide (school letters,

evaluations, ECI evaluations, therapist evaluations, previous testing, etc.)



You will have the opportunity to provide a detailed history about your

concerns and clarify any questions we might have after reviewing reports you

have provided.



We will complete a limited physical examination (specifically assessing for

any physiologic findings that may be associated with your concerns).



A neurodevelopmental examination will be performed.



If additional tests are required for assessment, they will be recommended at

this time.

 

SECOND VISIT: TESTING (60-90 MINUTES)



Formal standardized testing and individual time with the child



Parents may be asked to complete standardized surveys that provide additional

details

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THIRD VISIT: SUMMARY AND RECOMENDATIONS (30-60 MINUTES)



This visit is primarily for parents.



If your child is old enough, we may schedule a portion of this visit to discuss our

findings and educate them at their developmental level



An explanation of our findings and diagnoses will be provided



Recommendations will be discussed, and a final plan will be provided using a

shared decision-making process



A written summary of the assessment and agreed upon plan will be provided via

the patient portal. With your permission, we will also provide a copy to your

primary care physician.

 

FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENTS



Any follow up visits will be based on your child’s individual needs.

 

THINGS TO KNOW



We know your time is important and you are busy. We will do our best to

work with you to schedule your appointment at a mutually acceptable time

and day. Since appointments are long, if you need to cancel, please let us

know well in advance (greater than 24 hours) so that we can see someone

else who may be waiting.



Life happens and we understand that at times despite the best planning you

may run late. Please let us know as soon as possible. If you are late, we

may need to shorten your visit to make sure other patients are seen at their

scheduled appointment time. We will schedule a follow-up appointment if

needed.

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