Newsletter, periodic publication

This Informational Bulletin provides information on recent Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) actions, policies, and resources that are available to states as they continue to develop long-term service and support systems that are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Olmstead decision.

Launched in 2007 during the Bush administration, the Money Follows the Person Program has supported states’ rebalancing efforts of moving low-income older adults and disabled people from long-term care facilities into the community. The program offers states extra Medicaid funding to pay for the participant's home and community-based services over 12 months. This article addresses the major challenges of the participating states in terms of administering the program.

How does the state of South Dakota provide outreach, including personal testimonials, important suggestions, and resources to individuals with disabilities seeking to maintain their benefits while also working? This July 2010 newsletter is one example of MIG outreach work being done in the state in order to provide these services. May be replicable by other states seeking to reach out to similar demographics.

Find two examples of quarterly newsletters produced by the state of Minnesota and directed at consumers with disabilities. Within the newsletters are personal stories from individuals with disabilities regarding employment, rehabilitation, finances and more as well as important information and resources for consumers. May be replicable by other states seeking to provide similar MIG outreach materials.

Iowa's MEPD (Medicaid for Employed People with Disabilities) program allows individuals to earn money for work and maintain their savings in the bank, which would normally put them over the limit to receive Medicaid. Follow this link to find quarterly installments of a newsletter designed to educate consumers on relevant information.

In December, 2010 Idaho put out this first edition of a newsletter aimed at providing outreach to consumers regarding Personal Assistance Services (PAS). This newsletter shares personal stories about individuals who are actively involved in Idaho’s local communities because Medicaid offers PAS. May be replicable by other states looking for ideas on how to share personal stories

Most Social Security Disability Insurance beneficiaries complete a 5-month waiting period before cash benefits entitlement and a 24-month waiting period before Medicare benefits. The Accelerated Benefits randomized experiment tests the effects of providing beneficiaries without health insurance with a benefits package during the waiting period. Read this article for findings on the prevalence of health insurance coverage among beneficiaries and the characteristics of those without insurance.

How is California educating relevant parties on this important new health care reform law? Please see two examples of state-wide outreach, a presentation on the changes that the Act will result in as well as a six month summary on the changes that have occurred thus far.

How is California helping youths with disabilities to connect with needed supports and services as they transition to work or postsecondary education? Explore several presentations and toolkits put out by the California Health Incentives Improvement Project (CHIIP) that aim to facilitate the transition process for these youth. May be replicable by other states seeking to assist similar populations.

How is the state of Alabama reaching out to consumers and employers with important information regarding help for persons with disabilities who want to work or return to work? To find out, explore several examples of state-wide outreach: two newsletters put out by "BamaWorks", Alabama's MIG program, a brochure, and a website. May be replicable by other states seeking to provide outreach for their own MIG programs.