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Who may refer a child?

Anyone. Referrals can be made by family members, ophthalmologists, neurologists, hospital personnel and specialists, early intervention specialists, and service coordinators.

Does a child need to have an eye report to be referred?

No.  An eye report is not needed before a referral for vision services can be made. We can help families understand the need for an eye exam with a pediatric ophthalmologist, explain what the visit may entail, and provide names of local doctors to choose from. If you are a professional supporting children birth to age three, click HERE for more information about vision screening.

Who is eligible to receive vision services?

Any child with an active Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP) can access no-cost vision support services. An IFSP is created by the Local EI Program (aka Community Centered Board) and its team of providers assigned to help the family. If a family or provider has any concerns about a child’s vision, teachers from A Shared Vision are available for consultation to address the vision concerns or provide ongoing vision services when necessary.

What is the process to connect with a Local EI Program (aka Community Centered Board)?

If a family is not already connected with a Community Centered Board (CCB), we will help. We'll connect each family with Early Intervention Colorado and their local CCB.  The CCB is an agency that will arrange for all the services entitled to the family, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech, language, hearing, and vision. These services are at no cost to Colorado families with children who are blind, deaf-blind, or visually impaired through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Part C.

What do consultative vision services look like?

A teacher from A Shared Vision will meet with a family and their other providers to discuss the child’s vision concerns and answer questions about overall vision development and those specific to each individual child. We offer recommendations and strategies to support the child’s continued progress during regular home-based and telehealth visits. We are familiar with local pediatric ophthalmologists and can share other vision-related resources as needed.

Are vision services free?

Yes!  A Shared Vision’s services are at no cost to Colorado families with children who are blind, deaf-blind, or visually impaired through the IDEA Part C. However, A Shared Vision must raise additional funds to support our dedicated teachers. Needs include specialized educational materials and supplies, mileage reimbursement, and basic teacher benefits. These funds will allow us to continue to be the leading nonprofit provider of early intervention vision services in Colorado.