Navigating a Diagnosis for Your Child: A Step-by-Step Guide for Families

At The Pilbara Disability Network we understand that seeking a diagnosis for your child can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone! Here’s a simple guide to help you navigate the process with confidence and care. Remember, your child’s uniqueness is a strength, and this journey is about understanding their needs so they can thrive.

Step 1: Visit Your GP or Child Health Nurse: Your first step is to speak with a healthcare professional, like your GP or Child Health Nurse. They can listen to your concerns, discuss your child’s development, and help you decide on the next steps.

Step 2: Get a Referral for Assessment: If further evaluation is needed, your GP will refer you to a paediatrician or specialist. This could be through the public health system (for free or low-cost services) or the private system (where you may access specialists faster but there may be out-of-pocket costs). More details below.

Step 3: Prepare for the Assessment: Before the appointment, reflect on your child’s strengths and challenges. Write down any observations about their behaviour at home, school, or in other settings to share with the specialist.

Step 4: The Assessment Process: During the assessment, the specialist may ask questions, observe your child, and conduct activities to understand how they learn and communicate. This process helps identify your child’s specific needs and how best to support them.

Step 5: Discussing the Results: After the assessment, the specialist will explain the findings. A diagnosis is a tool to help guide you toward the right support services. It’s about understanding your child’s needs, not labelling them.

Step 6: Explore Support Options: Once you have the diagnosis, you can access different support services, including therapies, community support groups, and educational adjustments. Whether using public or private services, your GP and local organisations can help you explore these options.

Step 7: NDIS and Early Intervention: If your child receives a diagnosis, they may be eligible for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), which funds therapies and support services. Your GP or specialist can assist with this process, or you can reach out to the NDIS directly for more information. If your child is under 9 years, they may also be eligible for NDIS Early Childhood Early Intervention Funding, without a diagnosis. More information about this can be found on the NDIS website www.ndis.gov.au

Step 8: Keep Communicating: Throughout this journey, keep communicating with your child’s healthcare team, school, and others involved in their care. Your ongoing advocacy and their insights will help create the best environment for your child.

Public vs Private System: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to seeking a diagnosis, you have two main pathways: the public health system or the private system. Both have their own benefits and challenges.

Public Health System

• Cost: Public health services are often free or low-cost, making them accessible to all families.

• Referral Process: Start with your GP or Child Health Nurse to get a referral to a specialist in the public system.

• Wait Times: Due to high demand, wait times for assessments can be longer (sometimes 6 months to 2 years), particularly for specialised services like developmental paediatricians or psychologists.

• Services: Public services are high-quality and include options for ongoing support through public hospitals and community health programs.
  

Private System

• Cost: Private services come with fees, but you may be able to access rebates through Medicare or private health insurance. Be sure to check any out-of-pocket costs.

• Referral Process: Your GP can refer you to a private specialist, where wait times are typically shorter. Depending on availability, you may get an appointment within a few weeks or months.

• Wait Times: Private services often have faster access to assessments and follow-up appointments, which can be helpful if immediate intervention is needed.

• Services: Private services may offer more flexibility in choosing specific specialists, and you may have more control over appointment schedules.
  

You’re Not Alone: Whether you choose the public or private route, remember that support is available to guide you through this process. At every step, focus on your child’s strengths and the tools that will help them thrive. You are your child’s best advocate, and there’s a community ready to support you!

If you need more information, reach out to local resources like The Inclusive Movement, Support Coordinators, or the NDIS for guidance.