Compared with their term counterparts, preterm infants incurred higher early intervention costs. This information along with data on birth trends will inform budget forecasting for early intervention programs. Costs that are associated with early childhood developmental services must be included when considering the long-term costs of prematurity.

In MA, most infants born <1,200 g are referred to EI, but disparities exist. Analysis of linked population-based health and developmental services can inform programs in order to reduce disparities and improve access for all high-risk infants.

In the last decade, the health status of individuals with disabilities has emerged as an explicit focus of public health attention, with consumers, policymakers, and researchers joining in defining and implementing an agenda in this area. With small federal grants from a few agencies, the field has begun to produce research findings, academic curricula, and model policies and interventions to promote health and prevent adverse outcomes among people with disabilities