Screening, Referral, and Early Intervention
Recognizing the need for a comprehensive approach, the Early Childhood Commission drafted a National Plan of Action for Screening, Referral and Early Intervention
Recognizing the need for a comprehensive approach, the Early Childhood Commission drafted a National Plan of Action for Screening, Referral and Early Intervention in 2006, which has the following objectives:
1. Develop a policy for a National Screening, Referral and Early Intervention System.
2. Develop screening and diagnostic tools for use in well child clinics and other systems
3. Develop systems for screening and referral
4. Develop early intervention systems and services.
5. Develop a system for data management (collection, storage, retrieval and use) to plan interventions.
6. Provide education and training to practitioners working in screening and early intervention services
7. Educate the public on child development and screening and support for developmental and behavioural disorders.
Dr. Tortello summarized that, “…the current transformation of the Jamaican education system will better facilitate the early identification of persons with learning difficulties, and the implementation of structured programmes and services to satisfy specific learning needs”.
