SERVICES FOR HIGH RISK INFANTS
DEFINITION AND ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR HIGH RISK INFANTS
Children under 36 months of age whose genetic, medical or environmental history indicate that they are at a substantially greater risk than the general population for a developmental disability are eligible for services from DDSN. Eligibility may be limited to a specific period of time until a comprehensive assessment can be made regarding the presence or absence of a qualifying disability.
At the conclusion of a specified time period, DDSN will provide a determination of eligibility, non-eligibility or an extension of time-limited services. If the diagnosis remains unclear beyond 36 months of age, the child will be considered "at risk" and will be eligible only for service coordination and special instruction (Early Intervention services). For more information, see page 80 for a list of statewide BabyNet offices or the Section titled SC Department of Disabilities and Special Needs List of Qualifies Service Providers for your local Disabilities and Special Needs Boards and Providers
INFORMATION NEEDED TO DETERMINE ELIGIBILITY
Social information (e.g., date of birth, social security number), medical records and other records and/or assessments that support your child's genetic, medical or environmental history as being at high risk for a developmental disability.
TYPES OF SERVICES AND SUPPORT AVAILABLE
DDSN contracts with local Disabilities and Special Needs (DSN) Boards and other providers to bring an array of services to your community. Services are provided based on your needs, the appropriateness of the service to meet the need, and the availability of funding. Services may be limited by the availibility of a service provider in your community. Examples of services include:
- Service Coordination
- Family support stipends for specialized equipment
- Respite Services
- Family Training/Special Instruction
See Section I for a detailed description of services. Services may be limited under some eligibility categories.
ANOTHER INFANT AND TODDLER SERVICE - BABYNET
BabyNet is a service of the SC Department of Health and Human Services. If you think your infant or toddler - from birth to 3 years of age, is developing or learning slowly, contact the local BabyNet office in your area. For telephone numbers, see the SC Department of Disabilities and Special Needs List of Qualified Service Providers for DSN offices.
BabyNet is a developmental program that helps an infant or toddler with special needs move toward his or her full potential. Children who meet eligibility criteria are served regardless of family income. Infants and toddlers from birth to three years may be eligible for BabyNet services if they are developing more slowly in any of the following ways:
- Learning to walk
- Height & weight
- Learning how to think
- Learning to listen & talk
- Getting along with others
- Doing things on their own
Early intervention services may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy or assistive technology. DDSN is a BabyNet participating state agency. We work closely with BabyNet and other state agencies to coordinate and provide the most appropriate services to special needs infants, toddlers and their families.
SC BabyNet Public Service Announcement
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