What is EarliPoint?
EarliPoint is an FDA-approved tool for the early and efficient diagnosis of autism, within the 16-95 month age range (up to age 8).
How does EarliPoint work and what data is collected during a session?
EarliPoint is a cutting-edge tool that utilizes eye-tracking technology to diagnose autism. By collecting 120 data points per second, it builds an attention funnel of how the child views the world when watching short video scenes of social interactions. The collected data is then analyzed using patented technology to compare the child’s behavior against age-expected metrics. This analysis helps identify if the child is missing key moments of social learning, a critical indicator of autism.
What should I expect once I contact Easterseals for an EarliPoint evaluation?
An Admissions Specialist from Easterseals will work with you to complete all initial intake requirements, explain the step-by-step process, and schedule your child’s diagnostic evaluation. In addition, you will also receive communication from our partner, Coralis Health. They will assist you in accessing their health portal, AthenaHealth. You may also receive phone calls and text messages from the AthenaHealth portal.
What will the evaluation look like for my child?
Your child will be seated in a high chair in front of the EarliPoint device, which resembles a small television. A series of videos will play on the screen for your child to view. If they have difficulty focusing, they may hold a comfort toy, provided it does not make any sounds. Additionally, they are allowed to have small snacks and/or a drink as long as it does not obstruct their view. The eye-gazing technology collects 120 data points per second to understand how the child views the world. The tool analyzes social disability, verbal ability, and non-verbal learning.
Who performs the assessment?
Easterseals Midwest’s highly-trained autism services team will complete a developmental history profile, and conduct an EarliPoint assessment. This information will then be forwarded to Coralis Health, where it will be reviewed by one of their expert Developmental Behavioral Pediatricians, and a telehealth appointment will be scheduled for the next day. Coralis Health will utilize standardized tools to confirm a diagnosis of autism. The Developmental Behavioral Pediatrician will then go over the results with the family, answer any questions and provide a detailed report, including recommendations.
Who is Coralis Health?
Coralis Health is a network of highly-experienced medical professionals, including Developmental Behavioral Pediatricians and Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists. They are experts in the field of child development, mental health, and in the diagnosis of autism. Coralis Health has partnered with Easterseals Midwest to provide timely diagnostic evaluations, which help shorten the extraordinarily long waiting times families currently face. You can learn more about Coralis Health here.
How long does the process take?
The entire process involves two appointments on back-to-back days. The EarliPoint assessment will take place at your local Easterseals office (either Kansas City or St. Louis) on a Monday. A consultation will then be arranged for the following day (Tuesday) at the same Easterseals location. During this appointment, you and the Easterseals team will participation in a telehealth meeting with Coralis Health to review the results of your child’s assessment. Please allow up to two hours for each appointment.
When will I receive my child’s diagnostic report?
You will receive a full report within 72 hours after the consultation with Coralis Health.
Will my child’s insurance accept the diagnosis so I can access services and therapies for them?
Yes, you will receive a formal medical diagnosis that can be used to submit to your insurance company. Actual coverage would be determined by your insurance provider.
How much does this cost?
A limited number of scholarships will be available to cover the cost. Call for an appointment and to learn if you may be eligible for a scholarship.
Where can I learn more about EarliPoint?
You can learn more by watching this short video.
How can I learn more about the EarliPoint technology and research behind it?
The Journal of the American Medical Association published two peer-reviewed studies showcasing the technology and science behind the new FDA-approved EarliPoint diagnostic tool. You may read them each online here.
