How to get started: The first step to accessing EI is getting a referral*
Your state accepts: PARENT/CAREGIVER AND PHYSICIAN referrals. You should refer as soon as possible!
Your state’s referral link(s): https://rehab.alabama.gov/Documents/EI/NeverTooEarlyAL/AEIS_Publications/EI-Referral-Card-FINAL-8.23.pdf
https://www.rehab.alabama.gov/NeverTooEarlyAL/home#contact
REMEMBER: YOU CAN ALWAYS CONTACT YOUR LOCAL EI OFFICE DIRECTLY BY PHONE OR IN PERSON
Your state’s EI contact number: +1800.543.3098
Your state’s EI office address: Anniston- 1910 Coleman Road
Dothan- 795 Ross Clark Circle, Suite 3
Homewood- 234 Goodwin Crest Drive
Huntsville- 3000 Johnson Road, SW
Mobile- 1610 Center Street, Suite A
Montgomery- 602 S. Lawrence St.
Tuscaloosa – 1400 James I. Harrison Jr. Parkway, East, Suite 100
Your state accepts referrals until: YOUR CHILD TURNS 24 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 MORE BELOW THE AVERAGE IN AT LEAST ONE AREA
If your child is not accepted into the program: CURRENTLY ALABAMA HAS NO AT-RISK PROGRAM*
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: STARTING WHEN YOUR CHILD TURNS 27 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.