Early Identification and Referral Self-Assessment Guide Process
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This Early Identification and Referral Self-Assessment Guide takes state deafblind projects through a data-based decision-making process to analyze current early identification and referral (EI&R) efforts and determine strategies to improve EI&R at local and state levels.
For assistance completing the guide, including obtaining data for the tables, contact Emma Nelson.
To learn how state deafblind projects have used the guide, see:
Guide Overview
The steps involved in using the guide are as follows:
- Systemically analyze Deafblind Child Count data and current early identification and referral efforts.
- Reflect on whether underlying issues exist related to under-identification, under-referral, or both.
- Assess the “state of the state.” Pull together information related to the level of, or potential for, collaboration across various systems: Part C, medical, EHDI (Early Hearing Detection and Intervention), and community programs.
- Scrutinize the current situation in relation to both under-identification and under-referral and identify the state systems and issues where the greatest indicators of a need for change exist. This will help determine where to target efforts.
- Develop an action plan aligned with evidence-based early identification and referral practices.
Tips for Using the Guide
Schedule Adequate Time. Set aside enough time to complete the guide. Pilot states reported that they spent more time than they had anticipated gathering information and going through the various sections of the guide.
Divide Assignments. If you have multiple staff, assign responsibility for different sections to them based on their experience and knowledge, then meet as a group to review and put it all together.
Make Use of Your Advisory Panel. The guide covers a number of state systems and groups. Involving key stakeholders in completion of the guide can be very beneficial. Consider devoting part of an advisory panel meeting to gathering needed information.
Focus on Feasibility, Not Just Need. Once you've identified areas of need, complete Section 3 of the guide's Decision-Making Matrix. Considering the feasibility and potential for making positive inroads with various systems will help you to focus your energy in areas where you are most likely to obtain the "biggest bang for your buck."
Attend to Evidence-Based Practices. As you develop an action plan, make sure you are incorporating evidence-based practices into your activities and materials.
Spend Time in the Toolbox. Explore the resources in the Early Identification and Referral Toolbox. It is a rich source of materials for integrating evidence-based practices into your action plan.
Plan for Change
The steps involved in planning for change include:
- Identify a system to target
- Explore evidence-based practices
- Develop an action plan
- Identify "Early Identification and Referral Toolbox" resources
Resources
Implementation
The implementation involves four strategies:
- Plan strategically with the targeted system
- Employ recommended practices
- Use "Early Identification and Referral Toolbox" resources
- Participate in EI&R network activities
Evaluation and Sustainability
Activities you may complete during the evaluation and sustainability phase include:
- Monitor progress and evaluate impact
- Share results and celebrate success
- Develop a plan for sustaining change
- Repeat the self-assessment process
Home
This Early Identification and Referral Self-Assessment Guide takes state deafblind projects through a data-based decision-making process to analyze current early identification and referral (EI&R) efforts and determine strategies to improve EI&R at local and state levels.
For assistance completing the guide, including obtaining data for the tables, contact Emma Nelson.
To learn how state deafblind projects have used the guide, see:
Guide Overview
The steps involved in using the guide are as follows:
- Systemically analyze Deafblind Child Count data and current early identification and referral efforts.
- Reflect on whether underlying issues exist related to under-identification, under-referral, or both.
- Assess the “state of the state.” Pull together information related to the level of, or potential for, collaboration across various systems: Part C, medical, EHDI (Early Hearing Detection and Intervention), and community programs.
- Scrutinize the current situation in relation to both under-identification and under-referral and identify the state systems and issues where the greatest indicators of a need for change exist. This will help determine where to target efforts.
- Develop an action plan aligned with evidence-based early identification and referral practices.
Tips for Using the Guide
Schedule Adequate Time. Set aside enough time to complete the guide. Pilot states reported that they spent more time than they had anticipated gathering information and going through the various sections of the guide.
Divide Assignments. If you have multiple staff, assign responsibility for different sections to them based on their experience and knowledge, then meet as a group to review and put it all together.
Make Use of Your Advisory Panel. The guide covers a number of state systems and groups. Involving key stakeholders in completion of the guide can be very beneficial. Consider devoting part of an advisory panel meeting to gathering needed information.
Focus on Feasibility, Not Just Need. Once you've identified areas of need, complete Section 3 of the guide's Decision-Making Matrix. Considering the feasibility and potential for making positive inroads with various systems will help you to focus your energy in areas where you are most likely to obtain the "biggest bang for your buck."
Attend to Evidence-Based Practices. As you develop an action plan, make sure you are incorporating evidence-based practices into your activities and materials.
Spend Time in the Toolbox. Explore the resources in the Early Identification and Referral Toolbox. It is a rich source of materials for integrating evidence-based practices into your action plan.
Plan for Change
The steps involved in planning for change include:
- Identify a system to target
- Explore evidence-based practices
- Develop an action plan
- Identify "Early Identification and Referral Toolbox" resources
Resources
Implementation
The implementation involves four strategies:
- Plan strategically with the targeted system
- Employ recommended practices
- Use "Early Identification and Referral Toolbox" resources
- Participate in EI&R network activities
Evaluation and Sustainability
Activities you may complete during the evaluation and sustainability phase include:
- Monitor progress and evaluate impact
- Share results and celebrate success
- Develop a plan for sustaining change
- Repeat the self-assessment process