Date of Award

2001

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Master of Physical Therapy (MPT)

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

Peggy Mohr

Keywords

Child Health Services -- North Dakota

Abstract

It has been a concern of the Family Advisory Council of Children's Special Health Services, Bismarck, North Dakota, that many families experienced difficulties when trying to access information for medical, financial, educational, and family services for their children with special health care needs. The family members on this advisory board found the process of accessing services confusing and time consuming, and indicated that families were also unclear as to where to begin the process. An abundance of information provided at the time of their child's diagnosis made it difficult for families to make informed decisions about the most important and appropriate services for their family. The problems these families encountered led to the development of this independent study and resulting publication.

The purpose of this study was to outline and describe the services available in North Dakota, the eligibility requirements involved, and how contacts with these services could be initiated. To accomplish this, a literature review was conducted concerning family demographics in North Dakota, utilization of services, and roles of professionals involved in these services. In addition, a review of materials provided by agencies that distribute information to families of children with disabilities and a flow chart and resource guide were completed. This document, available from the Children's Special Health Services, North Dakota Department of Human Services, and the Department of Physical Therapy, University of North Dakota, was designed to assist families and professionals in accessing services by outlining entry points along the service continuum, listing types of assistance available, and providing contact information for agencies/professionals who provide these services.

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