The Louisiana Department of Health announced Wednesday that the state’s EarlySteps early‑intervention program will transition its intake process from contracted Single Point of Entry providers to the department’s regional offices. The change, funded within the existing $6.6 million annual allocation, is intended to simplify access for families and improve continuity of care.
What EarlySteps Provides
EarlySteps serves roughly 17,000 infants and toddlers each year who have developmental delays or medical conditions that could cause delays. The program offers assessments, individualized family service plans, and therapeutic services designed to support children’s development before they reach school age.
How the Transition Will Work
Regional health offices began hiring dedicated intake staff in October. Starting Jan. 10, these offices will accept new referrals, while existing contractors will continue processing referrals received before that date through March 15. All contractor contracts remain in place until March 31, marking the end of the six‑month transition period.
“We do not anticipate an increase in annual expenditures as a result of the transition,” press secretary Amy Whitehead told The Center Square. She added that the allocation will cover staffing and operational costs, and that there is no waiting list for entry into EarlySteps. Intake and service coordination begin as soon as a referral is received.
Performance Metrics
During the federal fiscal year 2024‑25 reporting period, the department reported that 94 % of children measured under its timely‑service indicator received early‑intervention services on schedule, short of the 100 % target. For the indicator tracking completion of initial evaluations, assessments, and individualized family service plans within 45 days, the department achieved 99 % compliance against a 100 % goal.
Federal guidelines generally allow 45 calendar days to complete the initial evaluation, assessment, and service‑plan meeting, with limited exceptions. The department said it will monitor referral processing, evaluations, and service initiation throughout the transition to identify any potential delays.
What Families Can Expect
According to the health department, eligibility requirements, services, and required timelines will remain unchanged. Families will continue receiving services without interruption, and intake staff will receive training through early January to ensure a smooth handoff.
“This approach allows regional operations to begin accepting new referrals while existing contractors complete pending intake activities,” Whitehead explained. The department will keep a close eye on the process to maintain the high standards already reported.
Why the Change Matters
By moving intake in‑house, Louisiana aims to reduce reliance on external contractors and create a more direct line of communication between families and the state agency responsible for developmental‑disability services. The shift reflects a broader effort to streamline government services and keep more resources under state control, aligning with the administration’s focus on efficient, family‑centered public programs.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
