Transdisciplinary Teaming
The transdisciplinary approach is considered to be best practice because:
• Working as a transdisciplinary team reduces the likelihood of confusion for the family by reducing the number of people and disciplines with which they need to interact.
• It enhances relationship between the service coordinator and family if the service coordinator is also the primary interventionist.
• It increases collaboration and communication among team members
• Ensures that all providers going into the home are working on the same outcomes and strategies.
When describing the approach to families providers should elaborate on these concepts.
It is expected that teams will need to meet on a regular basis, therefore, it is imperative that staff schedules allow adequate time for consultation or meeting with team members and parents. Evidence of teaming should be documented in the child’s record. Completion of Form 2-6 Transdisciplinary Team Documentation of Medical Expertise, does not meet the standard for evidence of teaming with the family.
A transdisciplinary team should not be confused with a multidisciplinary team which means the involvement of two or more disciplines or professions and is required by Part C of IDEA in the provision of an integrated and coordinated evaluation to determine eligibility and an assessment to develop the summary of present abilities and strengths. The transdisciplinary team uses this information to identify the outcomes the family wants and the steps and strategies to reach the outcomes. All recommended services as indicated on the IFSP whether they are provided in the home or in a community setting are provided by the team in a manner that supports and enhances the child and family’s capabilities.