The MTP provides medically necessary occupational and physical therapy services to the children of Imperial County who meet medical eligibility criterion. Medically necessary therapy focuses on independence in such areas and mobility and activities of daily living. Located at the Imperial Valley Center for Exceptional Children (IVCEC), the MTP staff work with teams which include doctors, nurses, and school staff. The latter include but are not limited to teachers, speech therapists, and psychologists. The Medical Therapy Program is a subset of California Children’s Services. Generally children are required meet the criterion for CCS eligibility. However, if a child meets the medical criterion listed below, they are eligible for MTP OT, PT, and physician clinic services, regardless of financial eligibility. This latter category is known as MTP only.

Eligibility:

To be eligible for the Medical Therapy Program, children must meet the medical eligibility criterion listed in either categories one or two below.

1. Children with a muscular, musculoskeletal, or neuromuscular disease. Examples include, but are not limited to,

• cerebral palsy
• poliomyelitis
• muscular dystrophies
• myasthenia
• osteogenesis imperfecta
• arthrogryposis
• rheumatoid arthritis
• amputation
• contractures resulting from burns
• spinal cord defects

2. Children under the age of three who have specific neurological findings which suggest a high probability that they may have a physical disability that would qualify them for MTP services. They are considered At Risk, and may or may not be displaying symptoms of the above-listed conditions.

Referrals:

Children can be referred to the medical therapy program by health professionals, educators, family members, or members of the community. Simply contact the medical therapy program or CCS administrative office for the instructions on how to make a referral. A review of medical records in our Southern California Regional Office will be necessary to determine medical eligibility.

Contact Information:

El Centro Medical Therapy Program
1528 S. Waterman Ave, El Centro, CA 92243
Tel: (760) 312-6634
Fax: (760) 312-6658
michellesoto@co.imperial.ca.us