The Quincy Medical Group Pediatric Assessment Center offers comprehensive, “global” testing services for children from birth up to the age of 17. The comprehensive assessment at the global assessment clinic includes an evaluation by a speech therapist, 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 helps us to identify 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
- Observation of the child at school (when appropriate)
- Feedback with the parents/caregivers
- Easy to understand written report that outlines your child’s background, test findings, diagnosis, 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 1 million children are improperly diagnosed with ADHD. This is because there are several other disorders that mimic symptoms of ADHD, including learning disabilities, speech/language delays, anxiety, depression, or behavior 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. In addition, not every child seen will meet criteria for a diagnosis. We then work with parents and schools surrounding meeting their child’s needs.
Does my child need a global assessment?
Upon receipt of the packet, 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 provided.