How do I Choose an Early Intervention Provider?

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It is important to find a service provider that can meet the needs of your child and your family. You should feel comfortable talking to the provider. Here are some questions you may want to ask:

• Is the provider a Part C provider? If so, Part C should pay for your therapy if your insurance does not.
• Does my insurance company have a preferred provider I must use to qualify for payment of services?
• How far away is the facility?
• Will the provider come to my house or my child's day care center?
• What are the provider's qualifications? Is he or she licensed? Does he or she have any special certifications in pediatric therapy, early intervention, child development, etc.?
• Is the facility clean and well-maintained?
• Does the provider have experience with other children like mine? What kind of success has he or she enjoyed?
• How does the provider include me and my child in the treatment plan?
• How will the provider participate in my child's family support plan or individual education plan?
• Is my family invited to participate in the intervention sessions?
• How is family education and support provided?
• What happens when my child turns 3-years-old?
• How does the provider interact with my service coordinator and the local early intervention program?

Visit the National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center Web site for a list of Part C Lead Agencies.