Driven by evidence: diagnosis and treatment for children with autism spectrum disorders.

As the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders increases, practitioners across the state of Missouri face an increasing need to understand and provide evidence-based clinical care for these children and families. We describe the breadth of diagnosis and treatment services offered at Children's Mercy Hospital (Kansas City, Missouri), one of the designated Missouri Autism Centers, to demonstrate a model of implementation for evidence-based practice. Finally, we discuss relevant clinical considerations and provide resources for physicians to assist in the care and education of their patients.