Who Should be Referred to EarlySteps?
Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Act, Section 303.16, the federal law upon which EarlySteps is based, states that infants and toddlers who have a diagnosed physical or mental condition that has a high probability of resulting
in developmental delay are eligible for services.  Children  with delays in cognitive, motor, vision, hearing, communication, social-emotional or adaptive development may also be eligible for services.  If you have, or know a child who fits any of these criteria you should refer the child to your local System Point of Entry (SPOE).

How do I make a referral?
You should refer a child by contacting the SPOE in your area. 
CLICK HERE for list.

What happens after I make a referral?
Once the SPOE receives the completed referral form, the family will be contacted within four days to begin the eligibility determination process.  The child will first be screened for any possible developmental delays. 

If areas of concern appear, then the child with parental consent will have a more comprehensive developmental assessment. If the child meets EarlySteps eligibility criteria, then the family will select a Family Service Coordinator and
a meeting will be held to develop the child’s IFSP (Individualized Family Service Plan).  The IFSP identifies the outcomes, strategies and activities that comprise the
early intervention plan for the child.  Services listed on the IFSP are authorized for payment through the Central Finance Office (CFO), and any changes to the IFSP require a meeting of the whole IFSP team. 

All service providers chosen to carry out the activities of the IFSP must meet EarlySteps' certification requirements and must be listed on the Service matrix. 

Who pays for EarlySteps services?
EarlySteps services are provided through the support  of several funds:
     Federal Part C funds
     Federal Medicaid funds
     State Part C funds
     State Medicaid Matching funds
         
___________________________________________
Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals
Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities
628 North Fourth Street
Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70821-3117
Phone 1.225.342.0095
Toll Free 1.866.783.5553
Fax 1.225.342.8823
E-Mail us at ocddinfo@dhh.la.gov

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8/9/08