#United States #Denver #Soar Autism Center #ADHD Awareness Month #Developmental Pediatrics

Expanding Access to Developmental Pediatrics at Soar Autism Center

In honor of ADHD Awareness Month, Soar Autism Center has unveiled impressive early results from its innovative developmental pediatrics program. This initiative, which integrates specialized medical services with autism therapy teams, has already provided consultations for over 600 children since its launch in the fall of 2025.

The Need for Developmental Pediatrics

Limited access to developmental pediatrics has long been a challenge faced by families, driven primarily by workforce shortages rather than lack of demand. An analysis conducted by the American Academy of Pediatrics revealed a startling statistic: there is just one developmental-behavioral pediatric subspecialist available for every 100,000 children in the United States. Additionally, a national study highlighted that families often face average waiting periods of 5.4 months for initial evaluations, with only a handful of specialists concentrated in urban locations.

Soar's Integrated Model

Soar Autism Center aims to bridge this gap through a unique model that places developmental pediatrics providers alongside the child's existing therapy team, which includes a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), a speech-language pathologist (SLP), and an occupational therapist (OT). This collaboration not only eases access to essential medical consultations but also enhances the coordination and management of care. Soar's approach is vital, given that up to 95% of children with autism exhibit at least one co-occurring condition, often complicating their overall care.

To date, Soar’s developmental pediatrics team has submitted over 265 genetic test orders based on clinical assessments and family consent. This service complements, rather than replaces, the care provided by primary healthcare clinicians and other specialists, ensuring that the treatment plan is comprehensive and well-coordinated.

The Importance of Genetic Evaluation

In the context of diagnosing ADHD and autism, Soar emphasizes the significance of genetic evaluations. Many families of children with autism, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, are urged to pursue genetic assessments. However, navigating the complexities around insurance authorization and the testing process can be daunting.

Soar is dedicated to supporting families through this journey, helping them understand the role of genetic evaluations in their child's broader treatment strategy.

Understanding ADHD in Autistic Children

During ADHD Awareness Month, it is crucial to spotlight the interconnectedness of ADHD and autism. A national population-based study reported that approximately 43.8% of children with autism also have ADHD. Effective treatment for these children requires a nuanced understanding, as attention, regulation, communication, sensory experiences, and responses to treatment can vary significantly for each child.

Alexandra "Lexi" Vierling, CPNP, PMHS, Head of Medical Services at Soar Autism Center, notes, "Treating ADHD in children on the autism spectrum is distinctly different from treating it in isolation. Variables such as communication differences, sensory experiences, and sleep patterns can significantly influence a child’s behavior and treatment outcomes. A coordinated approach that involves families, therapists, and medical professionals allows us to construct a more accurate and supportive strategy for addressing these challenges."

Learn More About Soar's Services

Families and referring healthcare providers interested in learning more about how Soar's integrated model operates—specifically regarding developmental pediatrics services as part of early autism therapy—are encouraged to visit Soar Autism Center's website.

About Soar Autism Center

Soar Autism Center is committed to providing comprehensive early autism care for children up to the age of six. Their integrated model incorporates autism therapies based on the Early Start Denver Model, alongside speech and occupational therapy, diagnostic evaluations, and developmental pediatric services. With centers across Arizona, Colorado, Maryland, and Pennsylvania, Soar runs the CHOP-Soar Autism Centers in partnership with the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.