09/01/2026
Even if you feel a child may need a cognitive, psychological, or brain assessment, especially when you suspect other disabilities may be involved, it is important to know that you do not go straight to a Centre of Excellence. The process must begin at UTH, through a formal referral.
In our case, we already had all the medical documents and reports, but we went directly to the Pediatric Centre of Excellence. We were not attended to because the hospital requires the full process to be followed. Assessments are not done based on assumptions, suspicions, or school recommendations alone.
The process starts at the Children’s Hospital, A01 ward. You first pay for a school form at the cashier’s booth, which costs K300. After payment, you are referred to the Audiology Centre of Excellence, located just opposite.
At audiology, the child is assessed regardless of whether you already know your child is deaf or visually impaired. Parents are asked questions about the child’s environment and background, and the child’s hearing is examined. After this, you are referred to the Eye Clinic, then to the Psychiatric Unit, and also to see a pediatric doctor. The child is later observed at ZAMISE
Once these steps are completed, you are then referred to the Pediatric Centre of Excellence, where the final assessment is done. This completes the process and prepares the child for school placement.
The key message is simple: always start at A01, pay for the school form, go to audiology, and allow the hospital to guide you through the rest of the process.
Every School requires these assessments so they can know what to work with.
IMPORTANT: Carry food and water plus entertainment for your Children. Oh! Plus lots of Patience 😂😂
