Mussman-Backed Bill Allows Autism Evaluations to be Administered Earlier, Diagnoses Given Faster

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Michelle Mussman, D-Schaumburg, supported legislation allowing qualified speech-language pathologists to diagnose autism spectrum disorder (ASD) if the child is under age three and has no co-occurring medical conditions. With more evaluators, more evaluations can be conducted and more diagnoses given.

“Studies link early autism disorder diagnoses to earlier intervention and positive outcomes,” said Mussman. “Devleoping this new avenue of screening will allow for even earlier evaluations for ASD, allowing families more time to understand, accept, and ultimately learn to support their child on the autism spectrum.”

House Bill 5225 would allow a qualified speech-language pathologist to diagnose autism spectrum disorders, so long as the child is under age three and has no pre-existing medical conditions, such as seizures, gastrointestinal problems or sleep disorders. The licensed speech-language pathologist would need to have an active autism evaluation credential issued by the Illinois Early Intervention Program, and the diagnosis must occur as part of the program.

Following diagnosis by a qualified speech pathologist, children must be referred to appropriate medical personnel for further evaluation or management for services outside the scope of practice of a speech-language pathologist.

“It’s important that this bill develops the first step of screening, followed by more in depth evaluation,” said Mussman. “This means early diagnoses will be supported by multiple professionals with the goal of increasing timely access to resources.”

House Bill 5225 passed the House with bipartisan support and heads to the Senate for consideration.