Western Panhandle Early Steps

Early Steps services for children birth to thirty- six months of age are provided by a team of early interventionists appropriate to the needs of the child and family. Individuals providing services must be enrolled in the provider network with the Florida Department of Health, Children’s Program Medical Services prior to providing services. Agencies and independent providers must also enter into a contractual agreement with the Local Early Steps Office.

In order to enroll in Early Steps, providers must have internet access and an email address, one (1) year of experience in early intervention working with children birth to five years of age, current Florida license (if applicable), Medicaid treating enrollment for therapists (or in the process), a Level II (FBI) Background Screening current within the last five years and professional liability insurance. Providers with less than a year of experience, may enroll and complete a mentorship. More information on Early Steps enrollment and Provider Enrollment Classes, can be found on the Early Steps State Office provider enrollment website listed below.

The process to enroll:

• Access website: http://www.cms-kids.com/ESproviders/providers.htm
• Complete the electronic application for the appropriate provider class
• You will receive an email to acknowledge receipt of your application in 5-7 business days along with a checklist of documentation to be submitted in order to process your application.
• Collect the required documentation and send/bring the packet to the Local Early Steps Office: SHH/Early Steps, 5150 Bayou Blvd., Suite 1N, Pensacola, FL 32503, Attention: EI Clerk
• Complete Medicaid Early Intervention Application Packet and submit to the Local Early Steps Office.

 All Early Steps Providers are also required to enroll in Medicaid Early Intervention. Application forms and assistance with enrollment is available from the Early Intervention Clerk in the Local Early Steps Office: (850) 416-6164.