AboutJason Bhan Expertise Insights into and general advice on the diagnosis, management and care to children and adolescents with behavior disorders, mood disorders, drug addiction, or social adjustment disorders.
I will not give specific treatment recommendations or perform online consultations.
Experience I am a board certified Family Physician with a special interest in pediatric and adolescent health. I have experience with pediatric and adolescent mood disorders (including ADD, ADHD, depression, Autism, and Autism spectrum disorders.
Organizations American Medical Association
American Academy of Family Physicians
Education/Credentials MD - 2000
Board Certification ACFP (American College of Family Physicians) - 2003
Expert: Jason Bhan Date: 4/21/2008 Subject: Asperger's/High functioning Autism
Question I'm about 99% sure my almost 17 yr old son has asperger's and want an official diagnosis. I've connected with ASA local group and they say diagnosis imperative before he turns 18.
How do I find the right medical professional to obtain diagnosis. Our insurance has some limitations in this area so we have neither the time nor finances for any "wild goose chases".
The physician recommended by ASA parents I met is not in our insurance list of allowed providers.
I just need to know how to choose physician.
Public school route not an answer here in Texas as they will evaluate but not provide specific diagnosis, only will confirm that student has learning issues but no "labels".
Any help you can provide is greatly appreciated.
We live in Northwest Texas about 45 minutes nw of Dallas.
Answer 99% sure is about as close as you will ever get to any diagnosis within what is considered 'Autism Spectrum Disorders.' These are a complex group of disorders that often overlap. There are some cases of pure 'Autism,' or 'Asperger's', but usually it is more important to identify the deficits and tailor the treatment specifically for the child rather than towards the diagnosis itself.
However, I completely understand your desire for a definitive diagnosis and you are perfectly justified in seeking one out. The specialists that are best suited to 'make the call' are Developmental Pediatricians, or Neuropsychologists. The developmental pediatrician is a physician while the neuropshychologist is not - however both are qualified. You may have to head towards the larger cities or academic centers to find these folks. Try to choose one with experience in 'Autism Spectrum Disorders'. Don't be completely disappointed if no concrete answer can be given, as again, it is more important that issues are identified properly and addressed with therapy.
