Fort Myers hospital offers free autism screening for young children

Writer: Kendell Gordon
Published: Updated:
golisano children's hospital
Golisano Children’s Hospital (Credit: WINK News)

Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida is offering free monthly autism spectrum disorder screenings for toddlers aged 18 months to 5 years.

This is with the partnership of the Ronald McDonald Charities of Southwest Florida.

The next screening will be held on Feb. 21 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Pediatric Specialist Office, 15901 Bass Road, Suite 102 in Fort Myers.

It is estimated that one in every 36 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. This makes it more common than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS when considered individually.

Medical consultants for the project stress that an early diagnosis can make a vast difference for toddlers and their families.

They say early intensive behavioral intervention can make an immense difference in children’s development and their families.

The screenings are administered by an advanced practice registered nurse with extensive training and experience in typical child development and developmental disorders.

No physician referral is required.

To set up a schedule, call 239-343-6838.

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