Step 1 — Confirm Medical Assistance (MA) coverage
EIDBI is funded through Minnesota's Medical Assistance program. If your child already has MA or MinnesotaCare, you're set. If not, you can apply through MN DHS. Many children with autism qualify for MA through the TEFRA option even if family income is above the standard limit.
Step 2 — Get an autism diagnosis
EIDBI requires a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder or a related condition from a qualified provider — typically a developmental pediatrician, child psychologist, or psychiatrist. If your child doesn't have one yet, your pediatrician can refer you for an evaluation.
Step 3 — Complete the CMDE
The Comprehensive Multi-Disciplinary Evaluation (CMDE) is the official EIDBI evaluation. It confirms medical necessity and recommends a level of service. Spectrum Roots completes the CMDE for families who are starting with us — there's no separate cost to you when it's billed through MA.
Step 4 — Choose an EIDBI provider and start services
Once the CMDE is done, an Individual Treatment Plan (ITP) is built and submitted for authorization. Therapy usually begins within a couple of weeks after that. You can choose any EIDBI-certified provider in Minnesota — Spectrum Roots is based in Golden Valley and serves families across the Twin Cities metro.
Common questions
What if my child has private insurance?
Children can have both private insurance and MA. EIDBI is paid through MA, but private insurance often covers ABA separately. We'll help you sort out what fits.
What if I don't have a diagnosis yet?
Start the MA application and the diagnostic evaluation in parallel. We can also point you to evaluators who currently have shorter waitlists.
Get help with the process
Spectrum Roots walks Minnesota families through every step at no cost. Contact us or learn what EIDBI covers.
Have questions about your child's care?
We help Minnesota families navigate EIDBI eligibility and intake at no cost.