CUTS TO EARLY START PROGRAMS

 

The California Early Start Program is implementing several policy changes based on budget reduction estimates that are outlined in the FY 2009-2010 Trailer Bill (see www.dds.cahwnet.gov on the Early Start page for the link to the Trailer Bill). Among the key changes include requiring families to access insurance for medical therapies (i.e., OT); changes in Early Start eligibility criteria; funding of non-required services; accessing neighborhood preschools; and the establishment of the Prevention Program for at-risk infants and toddlers. These changes are significantly impacting the delivery of occupational therapy and other services to infants and toddlers and their families in terms of access and referrals to occupational therapy, quality of services provided, and identification of infants and toddlers who need early intervention.

 

The OTAC Early Intervention Services Task Force, facilitated by Vice President Pat Nagaishi, Ph.D., OTR/L   , has been established to monitor the impact of these policy changes statewide and to collaborate with key leaders at the state level from the Department of Developmental Services, Infant Development Association, California Physical Therapy Association, California Speech-Language-Hearing Association, as well as leaders in early intervention training and education and infant mental health to develop strategies and ideas for actions that can be taken on multiple levels (state, regional, and local) to address these changes and the opportunities they present within the current state and national contexts. For more information on the policy changes or how to get involved, contact Vice President Pat Nagaishi at vpres@otaconline.org

 

 

ACTION - HOW YOU CAN HELP:

 

Contact Pat at vpres@otaconline.orgto join her team.

Click here to access the Sample Letter.