205 W 5th Ave Ellensburg, WA 98926-2887
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Kittitas (pronounced 'KITT-i-tass') County is located in central Washington State. It spans from the lush forested Cascade Mountains to the upper Yakima River Valley plains and the Columbia River.
KCPHD wants all children in Kittitas County to have healthy beginnings and access to a healthy future. The staff works in various programs to ensure healthy beginnings for kids in the county.
Universal Developmental Screening (UDS) plays a crucial role in early identification of developmental delays. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that medical providers use a standardized developmental screening tool with all children at ages 9 months, 18 months, and 24-30 months. Once identified, young children with developmental concerns can be connected to appropriate resources and care. As young brains and bodies develop rapidly, early identification and intervention help children reach their highest potential.
Since 2013, KCPHD staff has been connecting local medical providers to UDS tools and training. In 2017, providers who serve families in Kittitas County were asked to complete a survey about their clinics’ UDS tools and programs.
Based on the results of that survey and the discussions it generated, it was determined that both providers and parents could benefit from more information about the referral process after developmental concerns are identified in small children. The following sections direct medical providers and parents to local resources:
As a medical provider in Kittitas County, the decision tree, linked below, will guide you through the referral process once you have identified a developmental concern.
When further evaluation is needed, as indicated by parental concern or screening tools, for known or suspected developmental delay in children ages 0-3, start by contacting Early Support for Infants and Toddlers (ESIT), which is known locally as the Birth to Three Program. Early intervention services through ESIT are designed to meet the developmental needs of eligible infants and toddlers. Services help parents and other caregivers support child development and learning through everyday activities. By providing coordination, supports, resources and services, ESIT builds on family strengths to enhance the development of children with developmental delays and disabilities. There are no income eligibility requirements or limits to the number of children who can be served through ESIT. To get started, call Kerry McMurry at 509-962-0452.
If a child is developing typically but has medical issues that require care coordination or local resources and referral, contact the Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs Program Manager, Michele Cawley, RN, at 509-306-1740. There are no income eligibility requirements.
For children ages 3-18 with developmental delay and/or behavioral problems, recommend that parents contact their child’s local school district. Parents may also contact Michele Cawley, RN, at 509-306-1740 for assistance.
Please email healthpromotion@co.kittitas.wa.us if you have any questions about this project.
