The Quincy Medical Group Pediatric Assessment Center offers comprehensive testing services for children from birth up to the age of 12 years of age. The comprehensive assessment includes an evaluation by a speech/language pathologist, occupational therapist, and clinical psychologist. Our tests are designed to scientifically assess a child’s symptoms, including symptoms related to attention, difficulty learning, social difficulties, sensory integration, emotional or behavior problems, autism, or general developmental delays. We also assess children for giftedness and school readiness to ensure proper school placement.
A team approach allows each specialist to provide comprehensive information in their area of expertise. This information helps us determine a child’s diagnosis and assists us in identifying their strengths and weaknesses. Using a strengths-based approach, we use research to develop comprehensive, individualized recommendations to help improve your child’s overall functioning and development in the home, school, and community environments.
Our assessments include the following:
- Initial meeting with parents/caregivers
- Reviewing relevant medical and school records
- Consulting with other professionals who work with your child
- Meet with the child to complete objective tests
- Feedback with the parents/caregivers
- Easy to understand written report that outlines your child’s medical and psychological history, test findings, and individualized recommendations
Why should my child have a Global Assessment?
Although sometimes children’s symptoms appear clear cut, children are often misdiagnosed. For example, recent research suggests that over one million children are improperly diagnosed with AD/HD. This is because there are several other disorders that mimic symptoms of AD/HD, including learning disabilities, speech/language delays, anxiety, depression, or behavioral difficulties. Some children are also just exhibiting normal childhood behavior and are over diagnosed. Having a proper diagnosis is critical for determining the proper treatment for your child and will also provide information that can guide educational planning.
Does my child need a Global Assessment?
Upon completion of the initial intake with parents/caregivers, the assessment team will review the information and determine if a comprehensive, global assessment is warranted. If the global assessment is not necessary, appropriate referrals for speech therapy, occupational therapy, counseling services, or additional services would be recommended.
How do I get a Global Assessment for my child?
If you believe your child would benefit from a comprehensive assessment, please call your child’s primary care provider to request a referral.