I am reading so many posts and references lately to early intervention, but I don't know what it is? Is it a state program or national? Is it required screening or only if the parents or pediatrician notice a problem? Is there anything about this I need to know or anything that I should be watching for? I would appreciate more info on this topic because I feel uninformed.

Usally you have to talk to a Dr.  They will point you to a state run program, if you have concerns talk to your Dr. 

It is called something different in each state- WI is called Birth to Three.  I posted a state by state list let me do some digging to find it.  

http://www.nectac.org/contact/ptccoord.asp ...

 THis might not be 100% accurate just a jumping point