Sometimes a pediatrician would like a second opinion so they may send a referral to the Child Development Services (CDS) autism clinic at the Alberta Children’s Hospital. The process typically includes a waiting period of several months after seeing the pediatrician, but the timing varies depending on demand. We would encourage parents to attach their own observations with the referral for a more thorough referral to the CDS. When your family has gone through the process, you can expect to come out with an assessment (s) and a letter of diagnosis, plus some orientation sessions for the parents guiding them to additional services. This service is covered by the provincial health plan.