‘So, this will do for you guys’: A closer look at Maine’s Part C rural service delivery

Deborah L. Rooks-Ellis; Christine M. Spence

doi:10.37291/2717638X.202453424

Authors

Deborah L. Rooks-Ellis Coastal Carolina University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4317-1593
Christine M. Spence Virginia Commonwealth University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6158-7082

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37291/2717638X.202453424

Keywords:

Rurality, Early intervention, Family-centered strategies

Abstract

This study examines family-centered strategies used by Maine’s Part C early intervention providers to support families residing in rural communities who may be experiencing vulnerabilities. Through focus groups, early intervention providers shared strategies and barriers when supporting families. Rurality-focused segments impacting early intervention services were identified in the following themes: (a) teaming and collaboration, (b) professional learning, (c) Part C implementation, and (d) resources and services. State funding and policies that focus on rurality may be an important contributing factor to strengthening structural inequities and increasing recruitment and retention of providers in rural areas.

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