Subject:  Access to MoFirstSteps.com for Service Providers
Source:  Mary Corey, Data Coordination
Intended Audience:  Service Providers, Service Coordinators, SICC, SPOEs
Date:  July 15, 2005

This message contains general information about the new web-based system that is being implemented across the state as well as important information for providers who do not have online access to mofirststeps.com.

The Child Care Management web system at mofirststeps.com is being implemented across the state as regional trainings take place and will essentially replace the existing paper early intervention (EI) record with an electronic EI record.  Several areas of the state have already been trained, with other trainings happening through July and August.  For new referrals and children currently in referral, the System Points of Entry (SPOE) will be entering the records in the web system and will also be back-entering into the web system some, but not all, children who are already have an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP).  Due to the magnitude of the web system, the transfer away from the old and to the new web system will be a very phased in process over the next several months to a year.  As children are entered in the web system, providers will be notified of meetings, be able to access the IFSPs and enter progress notes electronically for those children.  For children with IFSPs who have not been transferred to the web system, the existing paper exchange between providers and service coordinators will need to continue.  Depending on the region(s) that providers are serving, they should get in the habit of logging into mofirststeps.com and checking the My EI Kids link, to see children to whom they are assigned as an IFSP team member and/or service provider through the web system.  A resource manual and shortcuts to assist providers in becoming familiar with the system are available under help in the main menu of MoFirstSteps.com.  Technical issues with the system should be directed to the Central Finance Office (CFO) helpdesk.  First Steps program inquiries related to the software can be submitted to me at mary.corey@dese.mo.gov.

There are many providers, most of whom are affiliated with agencies, who have not requested online access to mofirststeps.com through the CFO.  Some agencies bill as an agency rather than having the individual providers bill for services, and because of this, the individual providers did not have to have online access.  With the new Child Care Management system, each individual provider MUST have access so that the provider can be notified of upcoming meetings, have access to the IFSP, and can enter progress notes online.  Providers employed by agencies can designate themselves as non-billing providers by marking “Agency Provider – Non-billing Provider” on the Online Access Request Form. 

In order for a First Steps enrolled provider to obtain online access, three forms must be submitted to the CFO.  These forms can be found at mofirststeps.com under Online Access Forms.  The forms with original signatures should be mailed to the CFO at the address on the bottom of the e-Signature Agreement form.  Questions about online access can be directed to the CFO Helpdesk at 866-711-2573 ext. 5.