AEIOU Foundation’s new Assessment Clinic aims to reduce waiting lists for children and families seeking answers on their child’s development. Launched in early 2024, AEIOU is excited to share the Clinic’s capacity is expanding, now catering for children up to 18 years of age.
The Clinic conducts standardised assessments and provides clinical reports to support specialists, such as paediatricians and psychologists, in the diagnosis process. The reports also help children and their families better understand their needs and areas of strength, and may support National Disability Insurance Scheme plan applications.
The University of Queensland’s Professor of Child and Youth Psychiatry, Dr James Scott, is supportive of the new Clinic, explaining it will assist his patients and their families. “This clinic is offering a service completed by health practitioners who are highly experienced in working with children with autism, and it will address the high demand for clinical assessment.”
Dr Scott said the benefits of improved access to autism diagnosis include increased participation in early education and community, and access to specialist funding and therapy supports for the individual. “There are also benefits for families who typically experience a range of barriers to inclusion and participation in community, too,” Dr Scott said.
CEO Alan Smith said all funds raised directly support AEIOU’s mission of enhancing the lives of children with autism through evidence-based early intervention programs and practical support.
“We’re proud to be partnering with the Dolphins this season and I know our community has their #PhinsUp in support,” Mr Smith said. “The Dolphins have given once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for AEIOU students to meet players, attend games and even run on the field at the start of a match. This generous partnership enables participation in community, support for children and families navigating the early years of a child’s development, and raises vital funds.”
Parents with concerns about their children’s development heading into school can also use the Clinic to provide a comprehensive profile of a child’s skills, strengths, and needs before they start their first year.
The Clinic is primarily operating from AEIOU’s Central Office location in Brisbane’s Spring Hill, but is also available through AEIOU centres.