Knowledge of Established Conditions List and Associated Policies and Procedures Among Pediatricians and Early Intervention Personnel.

Abstract

Objective: Despite automatic eligibility, many children with medical conditions associated with increased risk of disability do not receive Early Intervention (EI) services. State EI programs have compiled lists of established conditions to facilitate automatic enrollment; yet little is known about professionals' knowledge and utilization of these lists. This study examined the knowledge of these established conditions lists and associated policies and procedures among pediatricians and EI personnel. State initiatives and approaches undertaken to improve familiarity and utilization of the list, along with recommendations for its improvement were examined.

Method: In this mixed-methods study, self-rated survey data were collected from 193 EI personnel responsible for intake and eligibility evaluations, and 69 pediatricians providing primary care. Follow-up interviews were then conducted with 45 EI personnel and 22 pediatricians. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and qualitative data underwent thematic analysis.

Results: Pediatricians rated their knowledge of their state's established conditions list and related policies and procedures lower than EI personnel. Both groups emphasized the significance of the list in referral and eligibility determination but highlighted its underutilization and lack of professional development activities. Consequently, recommendations were made to improve state established conditions lists and their utilization in ensuring direct EI enrollment for eligible children.

Conclusion: The lack of shared knowledge and utilization of established conditions lists and associated policies and procedures among pediatricians and EI personnel may result in referral failure for eligible children. Addressing this challenge requires improvement in the content and statewide distribution to improve accessibility and usability.