Module Two: Lesson Three

I'm now moving to the third component of the model, which is integrated service delivery. This concept is front and center in the enhanced early steps model that is being introduced now, and that is the use of a primary service provider, or transdisciplinary model.

The purposes are to coordinate intervention, and not have it all segmented, segregated; to reduce the burden on the family; to increase confidence and competence in staff; and to use limited resources more efficiently. It just happens to do that, too.

So, the primary service provider model is a well established, old model that for some people seems new and radical. If it's a change from existing practices, then, of course, it seems new and radical. But I'm here to reassure you that across the United States, there are many, many, many people using the primary service provider model, and there are also many, many people who need help, which is why there are a number of us experts in the field, so called experts in the field, who have to go around helping with implementation of the primary service provider model, but it's not something that's wacko, or unknown, or just the drunken musings of your Early Steps state staff.

It really is a validated model, and for those of you who come from the allied health professions, I do know that the American Occupational Therapy Association, the American Physical Therapy Association, and the American Speech, Hearing, and Language Association, all are familiar with the concept of transdisciplinary service delivery, and understand it's value in birth to three. They understand that it is an appropriate service delivery method. It does not violate ethics, it does not violate licensure, and it does not violate scope of practice. If I can be any clearer, let me know.