Medical Diagnosis and Educational Evaluation - Why do I need both?

Many people are naturally confused when it comes to understanding the difference between having a medical diagnosis of Autism and getting services at school for a student with Autism.   It is important to know that a medical diagnosis of a disorder or syndrome does not automatically get a student services at their school.   This is not just true for Autism but for all disability labels specified in Federal Special Education law.

Receiving a medical diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder for your child in an important step in identifying services that are deemed as a “medical necessity” and that can potentially be covered by certain insurance providers.  This step is also required when applying for the Family Support Services Waiver and Social Security Disability.

The purpose of an educational evaluation is to assess areas of educational need. The school must look at the student’s academic achievement and functional performance to determine whether the student’s disability has an impact on the student’s educational performance.

However for a student to get services at school, an evaluation has to be completed by a multi-disciplinary team by the relevant school/district staff.  There are 13 specific Federal definitions called “exceptionalities” that are listed in the Federal law called the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA).  The team must use these exceptionalities in order to determine if a student might qualify for Special Education services.  

The word "might" is used here because it is possible that a student could meet the Federal definition of a student with a disability and not get services.  This is possible because the State Law regarding Special Education called Article 7, requires that the student meet the qualifications of an exceptionality, but also that this disability academically or functionally affects their education and/or the education of other students.  This is how our “higher functioning” kids on the autism spectrum don’t qualify for services. They academically perform well, it’s their social skills or sensory difficulties that are at issue. This is where families need to access services using their medical diagnosis and get help outside of the school setting.

This is a confusing and complex topic for many parents and caregivers.  If you are still unsure about the differences between a medical diagnosis and an educational evaluation, please contact My Autism Ally at myautismally@gmail.com or 260-207-4686.