If you have concerns about your child’s development, communication, social interaction, play skills, behavior, or daily living skills, we encourage you to speak with their pediatrician or primary care provider. Share the specific concerns you have noticed and ask whether a referral for a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation may be appropriate. A qualified diagnostic provider completes this evaluation, which can help determine whether autism spectrum disorder or another developmental condition may be present.Summit does not provide diagnostic evaluations, but we are happy to share a list of local providers who offer these evaluations, including the insurance plans they may accept. If your child is under age 3, you may also contact Louisiana EarlySteps directly to request an early-intervention evaluation.

Many insurance plans cover ABA services when they are medically necessary and authorized by the plan. Autism spectrum disorder is commonly covered, and some plans may cover other diagnoses when ABA is clinically appropriate. Coverage varies by policy, so our team will verify your benefits, authorization requirements, and any expected out-of-pocket costs before services begin.

Summit is currently in network with:Louisiana Blue and affiliated Blue Cross Blue Shield plansUnitedHealthcare commercial plansLouisiana Healthcare ConnectionsHealthy Blue LouisianaAmeriHealth Caritas of LouisianaAetna Better Health of Louisiana Because benefits and network participation can vary by plan, we will verify coverage before services begin.

To get started, call Summit or submit an inquiry through our website. A caregiver will speak with a member of our team to share basic information about the client, current needs, and the type of services being requested.After this initial conversation, we will send a Prospective Client Questionnaire through our client portal. The portal also allows you to upload required documents, such as insurance information, diagnostic records, referrals or prescriptions when required, and other relevant records.Once we receive and review the completed questionnaire and required documentation, we will confirm that your inquiry is complete and add the client to our Waiting List. Provider referrals are welcomed, but we ask that a caregiver contact Summit directly so we can discuss services, answer questions, and obtain the information needed to begin the waiting list process.

Wait times vary, and we are not able to provide a specific estimate because availability depends on several factors. These may include the client’s service needs, recommended number of hours, age, scheduling availability, insurance authorization, staffing, and the availability of an appropriate clinical team.In some cases, clients who need fewer weekly hours or a more focused service model—such as support with executive functioning, vocational skills, or other targeted goals—may have availability sooner than clients who need a more intensive schedule. Availability can change as current clients’ needs and schedules change.We encourage families to contact more than one provider they feel may be a good fit and to join multiple waiting lists when appropriate. This can help families access support as soon as possible while considering the provider and service model that best meets their needs.Have questions about whether Summit may be a good fit for your family? Contact our team to discuss next steps.