The Early Intervention Program at SVMC exemplifies how strategic use of waivers, paired with the funding needed to jumpstart an initiative, can ensure the right care is being delivered to directly improve lives.
Harnessing Waivers to Drive Innovation in Health Care Delivery
As an accountable care organization (ACO), OneCare Vermont benefits from special legal permissions—known as “waivers”—granted by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Department of Vermont Health Access. These waivers allow ACOs to simplify compliance with certain federal regulations, such as those governing referrals and payments, provided the arrangements support the transition to value-based care.
Waivers provide more than just regulatory flexibility—they are a strategic tool that enables providers to collaborate more effectively, reduce duplication of services, and deliver more seamless, coordinated care. OneCare Vermont leverages these waivers to improve quality, control costs, and expand access to care.
Pairing Waivers with Strategic Funding
Recognizing the potential of waivers to drive innovation, OneCare Vermont also offers targeted funding to support projects that utilize these permissions. A standout example from 2024 is Southwestern Vermont Medical Center’s (SVMC) Early Intervention Program, which supports children from birth to age five, particularly those with One Plans (0-3 years) and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) (3-5 years).
Led by Jennie Moon, Program Coordinator of Children’s Integrated Services Early Intervention (CIS/EI) at SVMC, a member of Dartmouth Health, the project was made possible through a waiver accessible only because of OneCare. This waiver removed legal barriers that would have otherwise prevented SVMC from providing essential developmental tools and equipment. OneCare also provided direct funding to purchase these critical resources. Together, the waiver and funding enabled SVMC to deliver timely, personalized interventions that make a lasting difference.
“The Early Intervention Program at SVMC exemplifies how strategic use of waivers, paired with the funding needed to jumpstart an initiative, can ensure the right care is being delivered to directly improve lives,” said Carrie Weigand, MD, Chief Medical Officer at OneCare Vermont. “By investing in children’s development early, we’re not only supporting families today—we’re building a healthier future for our communities.”
Success Stories
One of the program’s most inspiring stories involves a child who has difficulty speaking who received an Augmentative and Alternative Communication device (AAC) – an advanced device designed to supplement or replace spoken language, providing individuals with a way to express their needs, thoughts, and feelings. This AAC device significantly improved the child’s ability to communicate, increased participation in daily activities, and enhanced his overall quality of life.
Another heartwarming case is that of a child with trisomy 21 who received a Crawligator, a therapeutic device designed to aid in crawling. It has strengthened the child’s core muscles and improved mobility, much to the delight of his occupational therapist and family.
The program has also provided adaptive shoes for children requiring orthotics, ensuring proper support for their developmental needs. These seemingly small interventions have had a profound impact on the lives of the children and their families.
Left (toddler holding green device): AAC Device – enhancing the ability to communicate.
Right (infant looking at camera): The Crawligator – supporting mobility and strength.
Program Impact and Future Plans
Since its launch, the Early Intervention Program at SVMC has made a significant impact, providing essential developmental supports to 23 children, representing 44% of those identified through the Ages and Stages screener and actively engaged in Early Intervention services. Notably, 51% of paneled Early Intervention patients between 0–5 years old were positively impacted by this waiver funding, underscoring the program’s reach and effectiveness.
This support, made possible through the OneCare waiver and funding, included a wide range of adaptive and therapeutic equipment tailored to each child’s unique needs. From oral motor tools and compression shirts to safety beds and communication devices, the program has empowered families and helped children thrive during critical stages of development.
Beyond its immediate benefits, this waiver funding aims to set the foundation for policy change around coverage of these types of resources and devices for this patient population, potentially transforming how early developmental needs are supported across Vermont and beyond.
Jennie Moon’s dedication to securing funding and resources to support children in the community is evident in the program’s success. Her efforts, combined with the support of OneCare Vermont and the SVMC team, have created a strong foundation for early childhood development. Through innovative resource use, committed staff, and a focus on continuous improvement, SVMC is setting a high standard for early intervention.
Conclusion – A Contribution to Value-Based Success
SVMC’s Early Intervention Program—enabled by a OneCare waiver and supported by OneCare funding—is making a meaningful impact on children with developmental needs. It’s a pioneering effort in Vermont, setting a precedent for other regions. Integrating early intervention services within a hospital setting has improved collaboration and resource allocation, ultimately benefiting children and families.
As the program grows, SVMC remains focused on its mission: to support every child’s development and ensure they have the best possible start in life.
For more information:
Please contact Public Affairs at OneCare Vermont. public@onecarevt.org | 802-847-1346
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