Anyone have experience with DC's Early Intervention program?

[Anonymous]

I just learned (on DCUM!) that DC has an EI program. I have had DS in private therapy for over 6 months for motor skill delays. We are happy with the therapist, but the copays do add up. I am pretty sure he would still qualify for EI and am wondering if it's worth requesting an assessment. We can afford to keep him in private treatment if that's better, but I know folks who have had great experiences with MoCo EI - how about DC?

[Anonymous]

When we used it, DC contracted out the services to a private co. They were fine but it was about to change, not sure who has the contract now. The standards to qualify in DC were much higher than the burbs, I think it was 70% delayed in 2 or more areas. Doesn't hurt to call, I think they came out pretty quickly.

[Anonymous]

One thing to know is that unfortunately DC is one of only a few "states" in the entire country where EI is income-based - the assessment is free, but for the actual services you'll have to pay in full unless you're below the income cut off, which I think is somewhere around 70k for a family of four. I agree with PP, it doesn't hurt to call, but you're probably better off with your current therapist, especially if you're just paying insurance co-pays for therapy (I wish we were that lucky!).

[Anonymous]

wow, 75% in 2 areas? Another reason to be miffed about the low tax base in DC. In MoCo it is 25% delayed - DS is only 40% delayed according to his current therapist, so he probably doesn't qualify. I guess I should be (I am!) thankful about that. Thanks much for the info.

[Anonymous]

wow! 70% delayed that is really high. No wonder DC is the way it is. They should be ashamed and to make you pay for the service. How ridiculous!!!! I am shocked!!! They should be truly ashamed!

[Anonymous]

I'm the 70% poster, that's what I remember the standard being. DD was only 9 months so it was pretty hard to meet. It was fine as an initial screen eval though and it was free.

[Anonymous]

You need a 50% delay in at least one area of development or a diagnosis of a condition known to cause developmental delay (such as Down Syndrome, Autism, etc) to get services through the DC Early Intervention program. DC's Early Intervention is a "cost participation" program.

Many (most) children in DC qualify for Medicaid, which covers therapy costs up to age 3. If you don't have Medicaid, you can apply for financial aid with DCEIP . If you meet income guidelines, they may cover all of your therapy costs or a portion of them.

If you don't qualify for any financial coverage (because your income is too high) through DCEIP, then costs for therapy are on your own (through your insurance). I believe DCEIP will cover the cost of intial evaluation, annual assessments, and special instruction (since insurance doesn't cover this). Involvement in DCEIP entitles you to an IFSP, a service coordinator and assistance with transition.

I'm pretty sure that DCEIP gets no local funding and only about small amount from the Federal government - I think this is why they can't pay for most services. Not sure who to talk to about changing this, but it's a really important issue!

[Anonymous]

the other thing is that DCEI was never able to send providers. My daughter was supposed to get OT and PT once a week but they never got it together so she didn't get these services until she was in school at age 3. I am not a big fan of DC EI.

[Anonymous]

not a very helpful post but I think it is USELESS! We have to use all private therapists because the ones DC sent were awful.

[Anonymous]

Before writing them off I would call and get your child tested. If he she qualifies you may be able to get services. you need to stay on top of them and really advoate fr your child. We have and have had success..with a lot of persistence
Good luck

[Anonymous]

Every state has to have an Early Intervention Program, it is federal law. It is also federal law regarding if you qualify to have an IFSP created. Each state can decide how the cost of services will be covered. I am not a lawyer or policy person but google IDEA Part C to find out more.

1 reason why it might be beneficial to get into Early Intervention now is if you want to get services when your child turns 3 through Early Stages (DC Public Schools). If your child qualifies for Early Intervention and transitions into Early Stages (ages 3-5) and you want services through DC, they will come through DCPS. This means that you will automatically get a spot in a neighborhood school for the PreS / Pre K lottery.