Occupational and Physical THerapists as Case Managers in Early Intervention

Abstract

The 1986 early intervention legislation, Public Law 99-457, mandates that a case manager be named to assist the family in coordinating services. Further, the law indicated that an occupational or physical therapist may be named as the family's case manager. The purpose of this article is to describe the roles and functions involved in case management. The case management activities defined in the federal regulations of the early intervention legislation are examined as potential responsibilities of occupational and physical therapist. A explanation of how the case manager can effectively assist families in coordinating early intervention services is offered.