An Approach to Evaluating the Impact of Policy Changes in Early Intervention

State early intervention programs face significant regulatory, accountability, and economic demands. As a result, major policy and programmatic changes are occurring that subsequently affect the design and delivery of services. The authors conducted an evaluation of one state and its policy changes affecting eligibility, family cost participation, and service delivery. This article provides an overview of the steps taken to (a) design and carry out an evaluation measuring the impact the policy changes had on children, families, and services, and (b) inform and engage the state's early intervention program constituencies, including families, providers, and advocacy organizations.