Doctor Letter
Context for Speech, Evaluation, and Communication Access
This letter supports conversations with medical providers about functional speech, evaluation pathways, and communication access. The resources below provide clinical context, system-level gaps, and a real-world example.
Understanding Speech Motor Mechanisms and Nonverbal Presentation
Explains the underlying systems required for speech production and why nonverbal presentation may reflect a functional speech motor limitation.
Learn More →Change Petition for Speech Evaluation Protocol
Outlines the absence of a defined diagnostic and prognostic pathway when functional speech is not present, compared to existing protocols in vision and hearing.
View Petition →From Silence to Speech
Documents progression of Kitzerow's nonverbal autistic daughter from nonverbal presentation to functional speech and highlights the role of targeted evaluation and intervention.
Read Example →Functional Evaluation and Speech Motor Assessment Request
A structured request to support clinical evaluation, prognosis, and communication access.
Subject: Functional Communication Evaluation and Speech Motor Assessment
- Clarify functional impairments beyond the autism diagnosis
- Evaluate the underlying mechanisms required for speech production
- Request assessment of speech motor planning, coordination, and execution
- Determine expected developmental trajectory
- Guide intervention versus accommodation decisions
- Support timely access to AAC and communication methods
- Consider risk of language deprivation when communication access is limited
Dear [Doctor’s Name],
I am writing to request further evaluation and guidance regarding my child’s current level of function, particularly in areas that may not be fully explained by an autism diagnosis alone.
My primary concern is my child’s inability to produce functional speech. Given the impact this has on communication and development, I would like to better understand how this limitation is being evaluated and what the expected trajectory may be.
I am specifically requesting evaluation of the mechanisms required for speech production, including speech motor planning, coordination, and execution, to determine whether a speech motor impairment may be contributing to this limitation.
In other functional deficits, such as vision or hearing loss, a loss of function typically leads to a defined process that includes evaluation of underlying mechanisms, consideration of prognosis, and determination of appropriate intervention or accommodation. I am seeking similar clarity in this area.
Specifically, I would appreciate guidance on the following:
- What functional impairments may be present beyond the autism diagnosis
- Whether a speech motor impairment has been evaluated or should be evaluated
- What the expected developmental trajectory may be
- Whether my child is likely to benefit from targeted intervention, or requires accommodation
- What communication methods should be introduced at this stage
I am also seeking to ensure timely access to appropriate communication supports, including augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), if speech is not currently functional.
I understand that lack of access to a functional communication system may increase risk for language deprivation syndrome, and I would like to ensure that communication access is addressed as early as possible.
My goal is to ensure that evaluation and support are aligned with my child’s functional needs and developmental trajectory.
Thank you for your time and guidance.
Sincerely,
[Parent Name]
[Child’s Name]
[Contact Information]