Learn The Signs. ACT Early, 211 LA County and WIC - A Pilot
Relationship Fran Goldfarb, MA, MCHES, CPSP, Patricia Herrera,
MS
In 2015, Learn the Signs. Act Early. (LTSAE), through the USC
UCEDD, 211 LA County (211 LA) Developmental Screening and Care
Coordination Program and the Pasadena WIC program began a
collaborative relationship. This pilot braids customized LTSAE
materials with a unique phone based developmental screening program
and WICs easy access to underserved children with the most
needs.
211 LA is one of the nations largest information and referral
services serving annually million calls. In 2009, 211 LA, launched
phone -based developmental behavioral screening for children under
the age of 5. Parents/caregivers contacting 211 LA for any reason
are asked if they have a child under the age of 5 and if so, would
they be interested in a free parent questionnaire (developmental
screening). Parents who accept are asked questions from the PEDS,
PEDS: DM or M-CHAT. Children who do not pass the evidence-base
developmental screening are referred to their local regional center
(Part C agency) and other early childhood programs. 211 LA Care
Coordinator Specialists provide follow up to assure that the family
does not encounter any barriers to assessment. This program has
been highly successful; over 11,000 children have been screened
with over 50% identified as at risk for a developmental delay and
received care coordination services through 211 LA.
Abstract
211 LA Developmental Screening and Care Coordination Program
Project Components
Direct Referral Number for Screening
Program Description WIC staff have developmental checklists
customized with a direct phone number for the 211 LA .WIC staff
review the age appropriate checklist with the parent and ask if
they would be interested in participating in a parent questionnaire
(developmental screening) over the phone with 211 LA. Parents are
directed to call the number on the checklist either at the WIC
office or at their leisure.
For more information, please contact Fran Goldfarb 323 361-3831
or [email protected]
Rationale WIC has easy access to families and is viewed as a
trusted source of information. Therefore, they are a logical
partner in spreading the LTSAE message of developmental screening
for all children whether or not parents have expressed concerns.
211 LA offers easy access to screening and can provide families
with appropriate referrals and remove barriers to service through
follow up. Additionally 211 LA can provide families with resources
for other concerns which may have secondary impacts on child
development. In the last six months, 2,160 families screened by 211
LA were referred by Los Angeles County WIC Programs.
Slide Number 1
