Service Coordinators

SERVICE COORDINATORS may have a Master’s Degree in social work and at least two years of post-Master’s experience or have a Bachelor’s degree and at least two years of experience in the field of developmental disabilities.

The Service Coordinator identifies case needs, provides coordination of services to the individual (case management), provides counseling to the parents on problems related to having a child with developmental disabilities, provides referral to other agencies to meet other types of family or individual needs, and serves as an advocate for the individual with developmental disabilities.  As the case manager, the Service Coordinator schedules a staffing with the pediatrician, nurse, psychologist, and/or other professionals whenever needed.  The Service Coordinator also has the responsibility for ongoing services, such as arranging for purchased services outlined in the Individual Program Plan.  In addition, Service Coordinators as well as other staff members are available for public speaking on regional center services, and serve as consultants to community programs serving persons with developmental disabilities.

There are specialized service coordinators to assist families who request out-of-home placement for their developmentally disable member.  They help families to locate an appropriate placement facility, assist in the financial arrangements, apply for Supplemental Security Income benefits, and complete necessary paperwork.  These staff members also supervise all clients residing in community care facilities.  Most of these facilities are small and home-like and are operated by skilled and experienced care providers.

ACRC also has specialized coordinators who supervise all of the individual with developmental disabilities from our ten-county geographic area who reside in one of the State Developmental Centers within California.  The regional center controls all admissions of individuals with developmental disabilities to the State Developmental Center system and assists in discharge planning for community re-entry.

 

 Role of Service Coordinators