How to get started: The first step to accessing EI is getting a referral*
Your state accepts : referrals FROM Anyone involved in care of the child, with parental permission
You should refer as soon as possible!
Your state’s referral link(s): https://achieve.iowa.gov/early-access-referral
REMEMBER: YOU CAN ALWAYS CONTACT YOUR LOCAL EI OFFICE DIRECTLY BY PHONE OR IN PERSON
Your state’s EI contact number: 1-888-IAKIDS1 (1-888-425-4371)
Your state’s EI contact Email: iafamilysupportnetwork@everystep.org
Your state’s EI office address: MAIN OFFICE:. 3000 Easton Blvd
Des Moines, IA 50317 THERE MAY BE SEVERAL LOCAL OFFICES YOU CAN CONTACT. CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO VIEW THE ADDRESSES TO LOCAL OFFICES IN YOUR STATE.https://iowaaea.org/find-my-aea
Your state accepts referrals until: YOUR CHILD TURNS 36 MO
After a referral is made it SHOULD be NO MORE THAN 3 MONTHS before your family is contacted for an evaluation* and service coordination.
At your evaluation they will assess your child’s: cognitive, physical, communication, social emotional, and adaptive abilities
Your state will accept your child into EI if: your child’s scores show a delay of 25% or greater below the average OR HAS A CONDITION ON A PRE-APPROVED LIST
If your child is not accepted into the program: You may be eligible for RE-DETERMINATION of eligibility. Talk to your service coordinator for more information. Reach out to the Title V child health agency or Child Health Specialty Clinic for developmental monitoring.
If your child qualifies: your family will be given no-cost services* that will address your needs. The length and type of therapies will be outlined though an Individualized Family Service Plan*. These services will continue UNTIL YOUR CHILD TURNS 3
You will be expected to begin transitioning out of this program: WHEN YOUR CHILD TURNS 27 – 30 MO
EI Transition* can mean a variety of things- your child may need further service coordination through Part B of IDEA (school services) or they may be ready to transition out of their service provision. Your providers will meet with you and explain this process. This process should take NO LONGER THAN 3 MO.