The Quincy Medical Group Pediatric Assessment Center offers comprehensive testing services for children from birth up to the age of 17. The comprehensive assessment 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 one 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.
How do I get a global assessment for my child?
If you believe your child would benefit from a comprehensive assessment, you may call (217) 222‑6550, ext. 3418. The first step in the global assessment process is completing a packet that will provide the evaluators with the information they need to determine the services that will be most beneficial in helping your child. The initial packet can be mailed directly to you or can be picked up at the Quincy Medical Group Pediatric Therapy department on the first floor of our 1101 Maine Street building in Quincy. Once the packet is returned to our office, we will call you directly to schedule your appointments. We also encourage parents/caregivers who require help in completing the packet to either call us directly for assistance or to gain assistance from their current service providers or school personnel.
