The mother can request a complete speech and language evaluation, which typically includes a screening for auditory processing problems (the SCAN). The mother should make the request in writing, citing her concerns about whatever the problems are. A parent can even request specific tests.Check out the “LD in Depth” section of this website under “assessments” and “I.E.P.” for articles that explain exactly what can be requested, how to request it, what to do if you think the evaluations are inadequate, etc. My understanding of this is that, if a parent makes a written request, the school district is required by law to follow through on it within a specified period of time. (See below about why a school will probably conduct enough tests to at least look good on paper.)If the girl passes the school screening for auditory processing problems, there at least has been some testing to rule it out. If she doesn’t pass the screening, it will give some indication of the areas of weakness and may help the school design accommodations for her. The school screening is not a complete CAPD eval, but it’s better than nothing.If the mother doesn’t think the school did a good job of testing, she can request outside testing be done (at the school district’s expense). These requests are seldom turned down, especially if the school figures the parent is well-versed in the child’s rights, because it’s cheaper for them to pay for the testing than to defend their decision in court if the parent challenges the rejection. This would be a possible way to get the full-scale CAPD assessment done.I don’t think a school has to pay for an ADD evaluation, as it is considered a medical condition. Family physicians aren’t trained in this area, but that doesn’t seem to prevent many of them from making the diagnosis. If your friend doesn’t mind a trial-and-error approach to medicating (“Let’s try Ritalin and see if it makes a difference.”), she could ask around to find a family physician who is willing. I personally have a huge problem with this, but people with limited options often have to make hard choices.Mary: My friends daughter has been evaluated by the CST who believe most of
: her academic struggles may be the result of ADHD-Inattentive. I
: believe she needs a diagnosis from a medical doctor in order for
: her to be classified and get any type of services. Is the school
: required to pay for a doctor’s exam, since my friend doesn’t have
: health insurance. If not, can a regular family doctor make this
: diagnosis or would she have to go to a psychiatrist or
: developmental pediatrician, in which case the fees would be
: financially burdensome.: In addition, I suggested to her that she get an audiological exam
: before medicating her, since ADD and CAPD have similar symptoms.
: She definitely can’t afford that type of exam, she said. Is the
: school required to pay for this. If so, and they refuse, then
: what? Where would I find it in writing that they have too?: Thanks!: Jackie