Developmental Pediatrician Providers in San Diego, CA

Finding the right developmental pediatrician provider in San Diego can feel overwhelming. We've compiled availability, insurance, and waitlist information to help you find care faster.

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Providers Found

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Accepting Clients

Avg Waitlist

Developmental Pediatrician Providers in San Diego

Anthony Kuleto, M.D., F.A.A.P.

Transcend Therapy CA — Dr. Anthony Kuleto (concierge developmental pediatric evaluations)

Developmental Pediatrician

📍 Mailing/office listed in San Diego (contact via website for exact office address)

Dr. Deborah Pontillo, Ph.D. (psychologist; clinic coordinates developmental/behavioral services)

San Diego Kids First / San Diego Behavior Solutions (SDBS)

Developmental Pediatrician

📍 Office locations listed on website (contact for specific clinic address)

📍 Multiple clinics (contact number connects to FHSD centralized services)

Medi-CalPrivate insurance (varies)
Lauren Gist, M.D., M.P.H. (staff physician; clinic has multiple providers)

Rady Children's Hospital — Developmental-Behavioral Services

Developmental Pediatrician

📍 3020 Children's Way

Private insuranceMedi-Cal (varies by program)Regional Center referrals (referral-based services)
Mary Jane Pionk, M.D.

La Jolla Developmental Pediatrics

Developmental Pediatrician

📍 4646 Executive Drive, Suite 120

What to Look For in Developmental Pediatrician

Developmental pediatricians are medical doctors specialized in diagnosing and treating developmental disorders including autism. They can provide formal autism diagnoses, prescribe medications, and coordinate care.

  • Board certification in developmental-behavioral pediatrics
  • Experience with autism spectrum disorders
  • Thorough evaluation process
  • Care coordination with therapists
  • Reasonable wait times for follow-ups

Insurance: Most health insurance covers developmental pediatrician visits. Wait times for initial appointments can be 3-12 months in many areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a developmental pediatrician and regular pediatrician?
Developmental pediatricians have specialized training in developmental disorders and can provide comprehensive autism evaluations and diagnoses.
How long does an autism evaluation take?
Comprehensive evaluations typically take 2-4 hours, sometimes split across multiple visits. Some practices have shorter screening appointments.
Can a developmental pediatrician prescribe medication?
Yes. As medical doctors, they can prescribe medications for conditions often co-occurring with autism, like ADHD, anxiety, or sleep issues.
How often will we need follow-up visits?
Typically every 3-12 months depending on your child's needs, medication management, and developmental progress.

Your Regional Office

San Diego Regional Center

regional_center

📍 4355 Ruffin Road, Suite 200, San Diego, CA 92123-1648, San Diego

📞 (858) 576-2996

🌐 Visit Website

🕐 Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Individuals must have a developmental disability that originates before age 18, is expected to continue indefinitely, and constitutes a substantial disability.

California Resources

Key Laws

SB 946

Requires health insurance to cover behavioral health treatment for autism, including ABA therapy.

Lanterman Act

Guarantees services and supports for Californians with developmental disabilities through Regional Centers.

AB 1062

Requires school districts to use evidence-based practices for students with autism.

Funding Sources

Regional Center

Provides services for individuals with developmental disabilities, including autism. Free evaluation and services.

Medi-Cal

California's Medicaid program covers ABA, speech therapy, OT, and other autism services.

Private Insurance

SB 946 mandates autism coverage. Contact your insurer for specific benefits.

School District (IEP)

Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) for children ages 3-22 with disabilities.

Early Start

Early intervention for children 0-3 through Regional Centers. Free evaluation.

Developmental Pediatrician in Nearby Cities

Other Services in San Diego

Best Developmental Pediatrician in San Diego, CA (2025) | ParentGlue