The implementation of P.L. 99–457 will require dramatic changes in policies and service provision in many states. The successful development of a comprehensive, coordinated, multidisciplinary service system will require a considerable amount of technical assistance to states. In order to understand more clearly the nature of these needs, this article presents a definition of technical assistance; a description of developmental levels in the provision of comprehensive, coordinated services; an approach to designing a system of comprehensive services; and a brief discussion of major needs that are likely to exist across states.
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