What is AccessOAP?
Updated: Mar 15
Please note there are hyperlinks in this article
If you registered for the OAP (Ontario Autism Program) prior to April 2022, you may have received or will be receiving an email or letter about setting up an AccessOAP account with a transition code.
Here's a short video from the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS)
(1) What is AccessOAP?

In short, AccessOAP will be handling the administration of the OAP. In the past, the provincial autism program was managed by the regional providers (before 2019) and then by the Ministry (2019-2022). The transition code in the email/letter enables the Ministry to transfer your child's file to AccessOAP.
(2) How was AccessOAP created and what do they do?

Please note that transition codes are only being to families who are already registered in the OAP (previously done through either the regional provider or directly with the Ministry). A transition code is not required if you register for the OAP directly through the AccessOAP website
(3) After I've created my AccessOAP account, what happens next?
After you've set up your account, be on the lookout for a message to eventually come in the AccessOAP portal about scheduling a Welcome Call (which can also virtual). This is where your Care Coordinator will explain what AccessOAP is and next steps.

(4) How do I register for the OAP?
As of October 2022, newly diagnosed families can register for the OAP through the AccessOAP website or via PDF
(5) When will I get an invitation to Core Clinical Services?
Invitations to Core Clinical Services are being sent to families in order by registration date. Once you get an invitation, you can schedule the Determination of Needs (DON) which is where a Care Coordinator (different from the one assigned to you) will ask you questions about your child’s goals, strengths and support needs across ten domains. This information will be used to determine your funding allocation.
(6) How do I prepare for the DON?
The questions that will be asked are about your child's needs over ten domains. Review them prior to your meeting and make notes (i.e. have examples) for each section. Be prepared to explain whether your child requires full support, some support or is independent in these areas.
Consider asking those who work with your child (e.g. teacher, SERT, occupational therapist, physical therapist, speech language pathologist, behaviour therapist, etc.) for their feedback about your child's needs. You may invite a therapist to attend the DON as well.

If you're unsure about any of the domains, ask your Care Coordinator for details prior to the DON and clarify what they’re asking
The DON is booked for 4 hours but you can ask that it be broken up. Breaks are provided but you can ask to take a breather when needed.
Remember that the DON isn't the same as a clinical assessment. You are providing information about your child's needs to determine funding allocation.

Related links:
News release: Ontario Increasing Access to Services for Children with Autism ( Dec 2021)
Backgrounder: Ontario Supporting Children on the Autism Spectrum and their Families (Dec 2021)