Information pediatricians need about early intervention

There is a perception that pediatricians are not always fully aware of either the services offered (e.g., eligibility criteria and state entitlement) or the system requirements (e.g., reimbursement mechanisms) of early intervention. We used a focus group format with a follow-up survey to pediatricians to identify potential barriers to early referral to early intervention and information or training needs of pediatricians as they relate to the early intervention system. Training needs were identified as knowledge based or practice based, indicating specific information about the early intervention system or specific skills, competencies, or attitudes of the physicians. It was recommended that early intervention programs develop outreach mechanisms to educate local pediatricians to attain a supportive and knowledgeable collaboration.