Cost Analysis in Early Intervention

Abstract

This study investigated the use of a resource cost methodology to obtain reliable and current estimates of the cost of early intervention services for children, aged birth through five, with disabilities. In addition to providing cost estimates for 11 different early intervention programs, the study investigated the sources of variation in cost across programs. The factors that had the greatest influence on cost were program duration and frequency of service, staff-child ratio, geographic location, and volunteer resources. Results are discussed in light of the impact of those variables on cost and in light of the contribution of cost analysis to policy making.