Physical Disabilities

The Maryland General Assembly passed the Long-Term Care Planning Act of 2006, which requires the Maryland Health Care Commission to conduct a study of Maryland’s long-term care delivery system. The purpose of the study is to determine the types of services and programs that individuals aged 65 and older and individuals with disabilities will need in 2010, 2020, and 2030, as well to identify how the State should begin planning for future needs. This report presents the results of the study.

This report discusses the options for expanding home and community based services in the state of Maryland as required by Bill 594. Should Maryland elect to expand access to Medicaid home- and community-based services(HCBS), it has several possible approaches. This report discusses these options for Maryland in detail; ideas other states designing similar programs might find useful.

This article outlines three potential models which may be adopted by states looking to develop programs designed to serve those individuals who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid benefits. The article also discusses possible contractual issues important to state Medicaid agencies as well as environmental factors which may influence the choice of models and potential program's prospects for success.

Disclosing a disability during a job search may be a major cause of anxiety or concern for people with disabilities and their supporters. Guidance is offered here for questions regarding whether, why, and how a disability should be disclosed to a potential employer in such a way that an applicant’s strengths are emphasized.

Here is an example of alternative funding of assistive technology to support employment. The fund is available through United Cerebral Palsy of Michigan and provides low interest loans for people with disabilities to purchase equipment that enables them to work from home. Examples of items and services that qualify for financing include computers and hardware, office furniture and equipment, home modifications, telecommunications systems, user training and maintenance.

What significance does employment hold for women with disabilities? What is known and unknown about these women? This issue of “Impact” answers these questions with articles by women with disabilities and researchers. Issues covered include self-employment, mentoring, transition planning, disparities across ethnic groups, and career development. Several women with disabilities who are successful artists, scientists, educators and entrepreneurs are profiled.

This presentation on Medicaid Infrastructure Grants (MIG) presents information regarding what ADRCs need to know about work incentive programs for individuals with disabilities. The presentation was part of the ADRC TA program and was delivered in November 2008. Additionally, a link is included to an informational website for the Ticket to Work Incentives Improvement Act.

The U.S. Department of Labor has joined with the U.S. Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs to launch a Web-based directory to help wounded warriors identify resources available to assist them in transitioning back to civilian life. The National Resource Directory encompasses more than 10,000 services and resources, including information on benefits and compensation, education, training and employment, family ad caregiver support, health, housing and transportation, service and resources.

Many of the same social, health, and economic trends driving the development of home and community-based services in the U.S. are also present in Europe. A team of experts assembled by the World Health Organization presents evidence for the effectiveness of home care, shows how it can be improved, and explains the need for equitable access. It also explores the varied cultural and care contexts in Europe and provides suggestions on educating professionals and the public about these issues.

The author focuses on Medicaid and Medicare in offering healthcare reform suggestions. Both legislative and administrative actions are proposed regarding eligibility and enrollment, access to services, program management and delivery systems issues, and financing. Several options relate to HCBS, such as protecting spouses of the medically needy, expanding eligibility for SSI-related groups, and issuing further guidance on waiver waiting lists.