Current Article 7 requires certain types of medical records or medical evaluations (e.g., written reports and written diagnostic statements) to be included in educational evaluations for 7 of the 13 exceptionality categories. Proposed Article 7 requires medical information for three exceptionality categories (blind or low vision, deaf or hard of hearing, and deaf-blind). The category developmental delay requires a vision and hearing screening, but this could be done by public agency personnel. Proposed Article 7 amends the other medical record requirements to
available medical information that is educationally relevant (emotional disability states, available medical and mental health information that is educationally relevant). This revised language creates flexibility for public agencies. If the medical information is available and educationally relevant, it should be considered by the multidisciplinary team. However, if the information is not available, the multidisciplinary team will not be precluded from proceeding with the evaluation.
What are your thoughts or comments on this?