Physical Disabilities

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.

This press release, dated May 2008, summarizes a collection of data related to American’s living with disabilities. This information is released each year in advance of the anniversary of the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Use this guide as quick reference to data and statistics.

Visitability is a movement that seeks to eliminate certain barriers to aging independently by promoting accessible home design. The authors examine different types of visitability initiatives, challenges to implementation, and opportunities for further acceptance. The design parameters needed for visitability include a zero-step entrance, wide doorways, and at least one half bathroom on the main floor.

Charts and data illustrate health-related differences between disabled and non-disabled noninstitutionalized adults in this report. Data are from the National Health Interview Survey. One section illustrates differences in access to care and health insurance coverage. Numbers on the prevalence of disabilities, demographics, and health behaviors and risks are also given.

This is a presentation hosted by the Administration on Developmental Disabilities and their TA providers, BETAH Associates, which includes a discussion of emergency preparedness, with a focus on individuals with disabilities. The presentation was given by Patricia A. Morrissey, Commissioner of the federal Administration on Developmental Disabilities. The last few slides contain a list of additional resources.

Presentations from NASHP’s 21st annual state health policy conference are now available. The conference is planned by state health policymakers for state agencies' staff, legislators, and legislative staff. Review the presentations to learn how others are improving and innovating healthcare through state-level policy.

In an effort to address integration across CMS Home and Community-based Services Programs, CMS worked with its National Quality Contractor to develop an this matrix. The Grid highlights specific quality requirements across HCBS program authorities that include program standards, measures, accountability, and sources of financing for quality activities. The tool is expected to be a helpful resource for planning purposes and for providing technical assistance to states and researchers.

Working Well, the Texas Demonstration to Maintain Independence and Employment, tests whether health and employment-related services can prevent workers with serious health issues from becoming disabled and dependent on federal benefits. These Issue Briefs introduce the program and present participant data. Brief 3 examines healthcare support workers participating in the project who are at risk for becoming disabled themselves. The website has participant stories and further project information.

This poster and brochure tell older adults, caregivers and individuals with disabilities living about information and referral services available at the Arkansas aging and disabilities resource center (ADRC). Use these as examples of how other ADRCs might consider spreading the word about their programs and services.

This document includes the “Arizona Links” common intake form as well as the instructions for completing the form. This common intake is intended be filed on behalf of a consumer, who is a resident or intends to become a resident of Arizona, and who is seeking or requiring direct services in the state.