Face-to-face option available by Monday, July 6
NYS Bureau of Early Intervention will allow face-to-face services starting July 6 in New York City in step with Phase III of NYS re-opening plan.
However, to lessen the possibility of COVID-19 transmission, it is strongly recommended that Telehealth services still be the preferred form of service. This means if you and the family are comfortable continuing Telehealth services you will not be forced to transition to face-to-face service!
However, if you or the family do decide to take the increased risk associated with face-to-face services you need to follow the guidelines located in the consent forms available in our website. A consent form needs to be signed before restarting face-to-face services, you can bring this form on the day you agree to provide the first face-to-face session, DON'T FORGET TO HAVE CONSENT FORMS SIGNED AND DATED ON OR BEFORE THE FIRST FACE-TO-FACE SESSION.
You and the family are expected to agree to and follow the guidelines below (this can also be found in the consent forms):
All participants will wear a face covering,
All participants are expected to wash their hands or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer directly before an after services start and end,
All non-participants who stay in the home should stay at least six-feet away from the participants,
If any of the conditions below are true for you, your family, the child, parents or the family of the child, THE FAMILY OR YOU MUST CANCEL ANY SCHEDULED SESSION IMMEDIATELY: a) exhibits COVID-19 symptoms (shortness of breath, cough, fever, muscle pain, sore throat, loss of smell or taste), b) positive COVID-19 within the last 14 days, c)told by doctor or contract tracer to remain home due to COVID-19
Please remember there are different consent forms for each county. You must follow each county guidelines before and during provision of face-to-face service. Visit our website to locate the appropriate form for the county the family lives in. The repository of forms and guidance documents can be found here.
Special Prohibition: Do Not Bring Toys
The NYS guidance specifically prohibits bringing toys or materials to your visits. Parents expect this from early interventionists so it is our role to explain how this practice can be dangerous to their health. Use the toys and materials available in the home instead. NYC made a short guide for using materials available at home. The guide can be found here.
One with YOU in Service
We recognize the invaluable sacrifice that each of us commits to as we deliver EI services for our families. Until we meet again, warm virtual hugs to all of you! Keep safe and healthy!