Autism spectrum disorders; screening of children

§ 2500-j. Autism spectrum disorders; screening of children. 1. The commissioner shall establish, for use by pediatric primary care providers, best practice protocols for early screening of children for autism spectrum disorders, including but not limited to developmental screening for children three years of age and under. Such protocols shall incorporate standards and guidelines established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, shall be updated at least biennially, and shall include, but not be limited to:

(a) the routine employment of objective autism spectrum disorder screening tools at regular intervals during critical childhood developmental stages;

(b) a provider/parental dialogue, utilizing the modified checklist for autism in toddlers as a reference, intended to educate parents in regard to autism spectrum disorders; and

(c) an appropriate referral mechanism for children who, based upon results of the aforementioned screening process, require further evaluation.

2. The modified checklist for autism in toddlers referred to in subdivision one of this section shall be accessible by the public on the department's internet website.

3. The commissioner shall promulgate any rules and regulations necessary to implement the provisions of this section.