The CLTS Program provides funding and support for families who have children with disabilities, who are Medicaid eligible, so they can care for their children at home and participate in their communities. This fact sheet explains developing outcomes as part of your child’s Individual Services Plan (ISP).

To learn about ISPs see Family Voices CLTS Fact Sheet #5: Developing Your Child’s Individual Service Plan.

Developing Your Child’s Service Plan: Creating Outcomes

Once your child is found eligible, and the county waiver agency has enrolled your family in the CLTS Program, you will work with a Support and Service Coordinator (SSC) to create an Individual Service Plan (ISP). An important first step is to identify long-term and short-term outcomes, or goals, for your child.

Did You Know? Your child’s SSC will share the Deciding Together Guide, a tool for families as they develop a child’s ISP. See the Deciding Together Guide (wisconsin.gov) and Deciding Together: What It Is and What It Isn’t to better understand this collaborative process.

What is an Outcome?

An outcome is a statement that reflects the values, goals and expectations for your child. An outcome might state what your child hopes to achieve, or it may state what you need to maintain or improve your child’s quality of life.

Outcomes are Important

Outcomes focused on your child and family and what’s most important to you. The outcomes you identify will determine the programs, services, equipment and other supports that are included in your child’s ISP.

Writing an Outcome

Outcomes are written as your child and family tell them. Your child will be encouraged to share their interests, abilities, choices and hopes for the future. Family members and those close to your child may also add to the plan, but remind them that CLTS can only pay for services provided directly to your child.

Your SSC and Outcome Development

Your SSC will meet with you and ask questions about your child and family. Together, you can talk about short-term and long-term goals as well as the kinds of support your child and family might need to reach these goals.

Things to Think about when Defining Outcomes

• • • What is going well for your child and family right now?
    • Who are the important people in your child and family’s life?
    • Are there family members, friends or others who are a support to your child and family? How do they help you?
    • What is your child currently working on, maintaining or wanting to change?
    • What does your child like to do most?
    • Describe a typical day in the life of your child and family and be specific:
      • • What times are difficult for your child or family? 
        • What activities cause a problem? 
        • What is the best part of your child’s day?

Including Outcomes in the ISP

Your SSC uses an ISP Outcomes form approved by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services to record your family’s goals and outcomes. Outcome statements listed on the ISP describe your concerns, goals, solutions, or changes. The plan includes the programs and services that will help to achieve or maintain the outcomes. It also lists those having a role or responsibility in achieving the outcomes. These statements will be written as you and your child have said them. You should feel comfortable with the outcome and goals as they are written on the ISP and know that the plan can be changed whenever needed for your child and family.

Examples of Child and Family Outcomes

• • • I need to be able to get my child in and out of our house while he is in his wheelchair.
    • Rosa and her siblings need to play safely together.
    • I need to spend time with my other children sometimes without my child with a disability.
    • Simone needs to be supported after school, so I can work.
    • My spouse and I need to learn more about my child’s disability and connect with other families so we can be better caregivers.
    • Carl wants a job that fits his interests and skills after high school.
    • My son wants to spend time with kids his age during the summer months.

INFORMATION AND RESOURCES

Wisconsin Wayfinder: Children’s Resource Network, 877-WiscWay (877-947-2929):  Wisconsin Wayfinder offers families one name and phone number to find services for children with special health care needs. Wayfinder connects you to a resource guide at one of the five Children’s Resource Centers in your area.