Louisiana Moves EarlySteps Intake to State Offices
Families seeking early intervention services will see a new referral process beginning in January.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Child Care
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Louisiana is transitioning the intake process for its EarlySteps program from private contractors to state regional offices. This shift aims to simplify access for the approximately 17,000 infants and toddlers who receive early intervention services in the state annually.
Why it matters
The change is designed to streamline entry into the early intervention system and improve continuity of care for families. By moving intake to state offices, officials intend to simplify the referral process for children birth through age 2 with developmental delays or medical conditions.
State administrative reporting shows the EarlySteps program currently maintains a 99% compliance rate for initial evaluations and service plans completed within the mandated 45-day window. It is currently unknown how the transition of intake responsibilities will impact these operational metrics.
The players
Louisiana Department of Health
The state agency responsible for overseeing public health programs and the EarlySteps intervention system.
Office of Intellectual and Developmental Disability Supports
The division within the state health department now assuming responsibility for EarlySteps intake operations.
The details
The EarlySteps program provides intervention services for children from birth through age 2 who have identified developmental delays or specific medical conditions. Previously managed by private Single Point of Entry providers, intake functions are shifting to the Office of Intellectual and Developmental Disability Supports. Regional state offices have been hiring dedicated staff since October to manage the influx of referrals and ensure service continuity.
Timeline
Regional offices began hiring dedicated intake staff in October 2026.
State offices begin accepting new referrals starting January 10, 2027.
Private contractors will cease processing new referrals on March 15, 2027.
The transition concludes and contractor status ends on March 31, 2027.
Health Landscape
This administrative reorganization aligns Louisiana's intake structure with the broader federal requirements established by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Part C. The shift moves the state toward a more centralized model of service coordination for early childhood developmental support.
Families seeking early intervention services should note that the referral process will transition to state regional offices starting January 10, 2027. If you have concerns about your child's development, speaking with your pediatrician about a formal referral remains the primary step for accessing these services.
The takeaway
Louisiana's early intervention system currently serves 17,000 children annually without a waiting list, maintaining a 94% on-time service rate. Families should prepare for changes to the intake process this winter and reach out to their pediatrician with any questions regarding existing or new referrals.
Further reading
Learn more about local support services in the Child Care section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KTBS.
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