To Make a Referral

What is a System Point of Entry?

Each  System Point of Entry (SPOE) receives referrals, establishes the eligibility of the child, and develops the initial IFSP (Individual Family Service Plan).

SPOEs also collect data, maintain early intervention records, and participate in infant tracking system activities., otherwise known as SPOE, is an agency that provides the intake services to families and children with disabilities.

 CLICK HERE for names and locations of the System Points of Entry  (SPOE) for EarlySteps.

How are SPOEs important to EarlySteps?

The SPOE (System Point of Entry for EarlySteps 

• establishes and maintains direct contact with families of children with special needs and the service providers
• collect significant data and information which is useful to program planners on the federal and state level
• provide resources to the community
• have the opportunity to express the needs and concerns of recipients of service to local and regional system administrators

What are the responsibilities of a SPOE?

A SPOE serves many important functions that enhance the effectiveness of services provided by the Part C system. SPOEs are responsible for the following:

• receive referrals for children under the age of three who have either diagnosed disabilities or conditions known to contribute or cause disabilities, children with identified developmental delays, or who are suspected to have developmental delays
• provide electronic linkage between the service area and the Central Finance Office
• facilitates access for children and their families to programs and services to meet their needs
• assist in the implementation of family-centered, equitable, consistent, and culturally competent services to families
• provides for the one point within each service area (such as the  city, parish, or region) where all providers available and accessible to families with eligible children
• acquires knowledge about

1) state and federal regulations regarding early Intervention record development and
   maintenance, IFSP development, transition activities, confidentiality.
2) Part C Eligibility Criteria.
3) community and state programs, financial sources and support services.
4) data collection to ensure families are correctly enrolling within the system.

Find a SPOE near you.

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Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals
Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities
628 North Fourth Street
Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70821-3117
Phone 1.225.342.0095
Toll Free 1.866.783.5553
Fax 1.225.342.8823
E-Mail us at ocddinfo@la.gov

11/13/08