Service Coordinators help families identify service providers in their community and complete application processes. They also serve as liaisons with insurers and other payors.

“One of our most important roles is to provide education and support for the family as they go through the process of learning about their child’s injury and understanding its impact,” says Ms. O’Malia, who serves as the program’s Statewide Manager.

Services are provided through a network of nine community agencies across the state. Service Coordinators, who had extensive experience in working with children with TBI and their families, participated in training to prepare for working with children with SCI and their families.

While the program is still young, Ms. O’Malia is already noting some differences in working with the two populations.

“Because traumatic brain injuries are less visible, families sometimes tend not to recognize the implications for ongoing disability in the beginning. So we may not become involved with them for some time after the injury. Because spinal cord injuries are more evident, we are seeing families earlier in the process.”

Funding for the program is provided by the Arizona Governor’s Council on Spinal and Head Injuries and OCSHCN. There is no charge to families for Service Coordination.

While not an entitlement program, the Service Coordination program also has limited funding available to assist families without insurance with specific needs, such as equipment or transportation.

Individuals who are interested in learning more about Service Coordination for children with SCI should contact the Service Coordinator for their county.