Getting Diagnosed

Question

Having our child diagnosed is really becoming a trial. Is it normal that a child can be diagnosed based on a couple of office visits and one school observation day? I don't think this is appropriate. All of the literature that I have been consuming indicates that the child should be observed in a variety of situations/environments including interacting with the parents. When the Little Man interacts with us he is so much more focused and asks questions, comments on emotions in movies and can almost control his meltdowns - almost. He is a different little being then he is at school - I know this. I am very concerned that he will be misdiagnosed, initially. Sooooo.... we are going to have him diagnosed by a doctor that we have vetted and approved.
The upshot seems to be, unless you have insurance (and even then, I'm sure they will try to kick us off now) you are stuck with whatever is deemed appropriate enough. Sigh. I'm making demands but still trying to be nice. There should be something better.
Any suggestions as to how to get what you need without starting a battle of wills would be appreciated.

Thanks.

This discussion is related to Global developmental delay concerns.

RockRose · Answer

What diagnosis are you seeking?

littlemansmom · Answer

Thanks. I called a few regional centers and apparently this is standard operating procedure. Unbelievable. We are going to have him diagnosed on our own. It is frustrating to think that something so weighty can be decided so flippantly. 

At home observation is crucial to a diagnosis and should be mandatory. Anyone else feel this way? 

I don't think I am asking too much.

RockRose · Answer

Are you trying to get him diagnosed with a specific disorder?

I agree,  he shouldn't be diagnosed on the basis of an observation and a few doctor visits.  Usually there are letters from teachers,  parents,  grandparents,  counselors,  etc.,  to give a very rounded long term view of the child.  

I insisted on not getting a diagnosis for my child,  but treating the symptoms of ADD.

Best wishes.