When families reach out to us about obtaining services for their child, one of the most common questions we hear is: How do I get an evaluation for OPWDD?
An OPWDD evaluation is the first step toward accessing supports for individuals with developmental disabilities in New York. Yet for many families, the process feels overwhelming.
At Hamaspik, we believe it shouldn’t be that way.
Whether you're just beginning the process or updating a previous evaluation, our goal is to make this step as smooth and supportive as possible.
The final report includes all assessment results, clinical impressions, and any relevant diagnoses. This document is used solely to determine OPWDD eligibility, it is not designed to guide treatment or therapy decisions.
Families working with Hamaspik don’t need to manage the next steps on their own. Once the evaluation is complete, Hamaspik handles all communication with the care manager and ensures the report is submitted to the right people. You can focus on your child’s needs— we’ll take care of the rest.
An OPWDD evaluation is more than just a box to check. It provides the professional documentation required to access support through New York State’s OPWDD system, services that can impact a person’s daily life, education, independence, and long-term care.
Families trust Hamaspik because we offer:
An evaluation is required for anyone who would like to apply for services through the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) in New York State.
Yes. Whether you already have a known diagnosis or simply have concerns based on behavior, slow development, or feedback from teachers, specific evaluations are required to determine if your child meets the criteria for OPWDD services.
If your child has had a previous evaluation, we’ll help determine whether it meets current OPWDD standards or needs to be updated. School-based evaluations are often helpful, but they don’t always include the specific tests OPWDD requires.
There isn’t one standard test. Instead, the evaluator selects from a range of assessments based on the child’s age, development, and suspected diagnosis.
Tests may include IQ testing (using tools like the WISC or Stanford-Binet), adaptive behavior assessments (such as the Vineland or ABAS), autism-specific tools (like the ADIR, CARS, or GARS), and other standardized measures depending on clinical judgment.
Once the appointment is complete and all questionnaires are submitted, the report is typically ready within three weeks.
If your child has Medicaid, the evaluation is fully covered with no out-of-pocket cost. If your child does not have Medicaid, the fee is $675. This reflects the standard Medicaid reimbursement rate, and in some cases, if your child is already connected to Hamaspik or will be receiving services through us, you may qualify for reimbursement or other support. Our Intake team will walk you through your options.
During the session, your child may be asked to:
These activities help the evaluator understand how your child learns, communicates, and functions in daily life. Evaluators are trained to adapt to your child’s pace and comfort level. There’s no such thing as passing or failing, this is about understanding, not judging.
An evaluation is a crucial part of getting the services and supports your child may need. It doesn’t guarantee eligibility, but it does ensure you’re taking the right step forward.
Whether you’re just starting the journey or need updated documentation, Hamaspik is here to make the process clear, supportive, and focused on your child’s future.
Have questions or ready to get started? We’ll walk you through every step with clarity and care.
© 2025 Hamaspik of Kings County, All rights reserved
