Barriers to Accessing Services for Young Children

2014

Marian Williams
[email protected]
323-361-8525

This study investigates barriers to accessing services for children under age 3 presenting with language delays and behavioral difficulties, including language barriers for Spanish-speaking families. Using a telephone script, researchers called 30 agencies in Los Angeles County, including regional centers (the state network of Part C agencies for children with developmental disabilities), mental health centers, and schools, requesting services for a 2-year-old child. Outcomes of calls were compared by agency and by language of call (Spanish or English). Regional center calls resulted in an appointment 90% of the time, whereas schools and mental health centers were significantly less likely to link callers with services. Calls in Spanish revealed language access barriers. The study indicated barriers including basic access (e.g., reaching a live person; response in the home language), and obtaining appropriate appointment or referral).

access, early childhood, developmental delay, mental health, Spanish

Peer-reviewed publications in scholarly journals Published/In Press

Professionals, Policymakers, Students

http://jei.sagepub.com/search/results?fulltext=barriers+to+accessing+services&x=10&y=11&submit=yes&journal_set=spjei&src=selected&andorexactfulltext=and

N/A