by independence northwest | Aug 11, 2014 | 2014 changes, advocacy, k plan, policy, provider organizations
Dear Portland Metro-Area Provider Organizations,
We, the six metro-area support services brokerages, wanted to send out a quick note regarding the current status of transitioning service codes, amending plans, and adjusting rates given the potential September 1st changes.
First, we’d like to briefly comment on our current understanding of DSA and Attendant Care services. Based on the DRAFT Expenditure Guidelines we received from the Department of Human Services just last week we believe that provider organizations can perform both Day Support Activities (DSA) as well as Attendant Care services. For details, follow this link to their current work-in-progress: August 2014 Expenditure Guidelines
We have been in talks with the state to request a delay of the September 1st implementation of these changes. Our primary reason for the delay request has to do with the impossible time frames we are faced with as a system to implement this latest sea change. Brokerages need appropriate time to do planning and coordination with customers prior to amending Individual Support Plans (ISPs) and service agreements, and Providers need time to evaluate the changes and revise their business plans in order to meet the new regime. We hope to hear back from Interim DD State Director Trisha Baxter within the next day or so regarding our request for delayed implementation. (Please note: we are requesting to delay implementation of DSA, but we are not asking for a delay to implementation of Supported Employment changes.)
Our hope is to work with the State on a reasonable timeline for implementation this fall or winter in a thoughtful process that includes a stakeholder work group charged with leading and influencing the transition.
As always, we appreciate your patience and partnership as we manage such significant systemic change. Your recent and ongoing advocacy is very much appreciated. Surely, we all agree that a thoughtful, proactive approach to transition is key to serving our customers and community in the most respectful and productive way possible.
We know there are scores of unanswered questions out there and we are preparing to gain the understanding necessary to respond to them given our limited resources during this transition. Without clarification and without the full participation of our customers, we are not able as of now to amend goals, plans, or service agreements. Please stay tuned – more details shortly.
Best,
Dan (SDRI), Katie (Mentor), Jennifer (CPI), Larry (INW), Rachel (Inclusion), and Sarah (UCP)
by independence northwest | Jun 2, 2014 | 2013 changes, 2014 changes, advocacy, customers, k plan, provider organizations, training
Late Friday afternoon (05.30.2014), Interim DD Director Trisha Baxter released the following statement to the I/DD community:
“As you are aware we have many priorities that we are focusing on, all with a July 1 implementation date. We have heard from many of you that these converging priorities are causing angst, stress and strain on you, and on the system. We, as well, are discovering the complexities of handling so many moving parts all at once. As such, based upon feedback from many of you and weighing our internal priorities and commitments with SEIU, CMS and others, we have come up with the following strategy to delay portions of the work and to stage implementation in a more manageable way. Additional information will be coming out over the coming weeks about the details behind these strategies so please pay close attention to emails and other communications over the coming days.
First, July 1 is a milestone for new employment services to be offered. These services are included in the Medicaid waivers that will be submitted for approval with a July 1 effective date. These new services will still be offered as of July 1. July 1 was also a targeted date for implementation of a new rate structure for employment services for both the comprehensive and support service system. The new rate structure will be finalized next week, however, at the request of multiple providers, we will hold off on implementation of those rates, with the exception of the rates for the new services, until September 1, 2014. The new services, which include Discovery and Job Development will be paid at the new outcome based rates. All other services will continue to be paid at the current, daily rate. This additional time will allow providers of employment services an opportunity to analyze how the new rates will apply to their service arrays. Additional information about the rate transition schedule, and expectations for tracking, billing and reporting of services provided during July and August will be coming shortly.
Additionally, we have been challenged to provide training to the large number of personal support workers, CDDP and Brokerage staff, and other providers on the new plan entry and claims process within the eXPRS system. In order to allow more time for training and other associated activities, we are delaying the implementation of Plan of Care functionality to September 1, 2014 as well. We will be working with partners, including SEIU and providers, to develop an implementation plan from September 1 forward, beginning with employment services. The delayed schedule and restaging of activities is important to assure successful implementation, but it does not deter or alter the strategic or programmatic outcomes the changes are designed to achieve.
There is much work to be done over the upcoming months to ensure that individuals experiencing intellectual and developmental disabilities continue to receive services and that those providing the services are paid accordingly. We thank all of you for your continued work with us as we pull together plans for full implementation. As always, if you have questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me.” – Trisha Baxter
by independence northwest | May 5, 2014 | 2013 changes, 2014 changes, advocacy, customers, domestic employees, independent contractors, k plan, provider organizations, providers, training
By Larry Deal
Executive Director
There are just 40 working days left between now and the end of the current fiscal year, June 30, 2014. Over the past year, that mid-summer date has been a much-publicized target for many changes in the Oregon’s developmental disabilities brokerage system. You’ve no doubt heard many times over: “this, that, or the other has to be done by July 1st”. This includes significant changes such as ensuring all 7,500 or so brokerage customers have been assessed with the new Functional Needs Assessment, ensuring that all providers are signed up in the state’s payment system, and preparing for having the state take over direct payment to all brokerage providers. In some areas of the state, customers are changing fiscal intermediaries as well. (Here at INW, this is not the case.)
There’s a lot happening. We understand that change can be confusing, frustrating and overwhelming. Sometimes all three. So here’s a cheat sheet for what you need to tend to in the next forty days.
If you’re a customer or a representative designee:
- Be sure to respond to your Personal Agent’s (or a state worker’s) call to complete the new Functional Needs Assessment. It’s essential these are completed for everyone by June 30th. This allows the state to draw down increased federal funding via the new K Plan. Additionally, be ready to revise your plan to make some language changes. Your PA will help you with that.
- If you have a provider, be sure that s/he has filled out a Provider Enrollment Agreement. We want to be sure they can continue to get paid after the state takes over payment (currently planned for July 1st.)
- One great way to better understand the changes is to attend one of INW’s community forums. We have two scheduled in May.
If you’re a provider of brokerage services:
- Make sure the customers you serve have scheduled a Functional Needs Assessment with their PA (or a state worker.) If they need some support during the assessment and would like you to assist, offer your help.
- If you have not already, you must apply for and receive a Medicaid provider number. Sign up by filling out the Provider Enrollment Agreement form as soon as possible.
- If you have already applied for a provider number, but haven’t heard back from the state, please contact them directly at DD-MH.OHCC@state.or.us
- If we’ve contacted you about updating your Criminal History Check, be sure you respond quickly. All PSWs must have a CHC completed every two years. You cannot be paid without a current check on file.
- Attend one of the upcoming Personal Support Worker webinars. There are currently three scheduled. The webinars will give you basic details on the state’s payment system (eXPRS) and how the way you’ll be paid is changing. Click here to learn more.
- Attend one of INW’s community forums.
If there are changes to the deadlines or expectations (and there may be), we’ll keep you updated via additional mailing. In the meantime, keep an eye on the INW blog or our Facebook page for the latest. As always, thank you for the opportunity to serve you, your family, and this community.
by independence northwest | May 5, 2014 | 2014 changes, domestic employees, independent contractors, policy, provider organizations, providers, training
The Oregon of Office of Developmental Disabilities (the state) is putting on a series of training for brokerage PSW providers. The training is called “Using eXPRS for DD Personal Support Workers and DD Independent Contractor PSWs.”
Per the state, “Use of the eXPRS Payment System will begin July 1st, 2014. This training is a repeat of the April 22nd webinar training session and will cover the information PSW or IC-PSWs need to know to get ready for July 1st. These trainings are online, computer-based trainings.
Training participants will need a computer and internet to view the training materials AND access to a phone to listen to the discussion. Pre-registration for these trainings is required as each session has a limit to the number of participants.”
Once registered, participants will receive an email with the training site link, conference phone number and instructions on how to connect to the training on the date you are registered to participate. If you have questions, contact Julie Harrison at JULIE.A.HARRISON@dhsoha.state.or.us.
by independence northwest | May 5, 2014 | 2013 changes, 2014 changes, advocacy, k plan, provider organizations, providers, resource
Our May 2014 Big Changes in Brokerage Services Community Forum dates are set! Join us on Thursday May 22nd at 6pm or Friday May 23rd at 10am. Learn more about the K Plan, the upcoming needs assessment requirement, new options for case management, plans for a new universal ISP, changes to provider payment and rates, and much more. We’ve got lots of details to share. Join us!
RSVP to Rachel at 503.546.2950 or by emailing rkroll@independencenw.org.
by independence northwest | Mar 4, 2014 | 2013 changes, clackamas county, community connections, customers, multnomah county, provider organizations, providers, resource, washington county
Seats are filling up very fast this month! Our March 12th forum is at capacity, but there’s still space for our March 26th evening session. Save your space by calling Rachel at 503.546.2950 or emailing rkroll@independencenw.org. Lots of developments this month. We look forward to seeing you there.
by independencenw | Nov 25, 2013 | customers, domestic employees, independent contractors, provider organizations, providers
Dear Providers,
There continue to be hold-ups on the State’s move to take over payment to providers of brokerage services.
Representatives from the Office of Developmental Disabilities Services promise there’s continued work on a solid plan, but as of right now they have produced no clear plans or feasible timelines. What we do know is this:
- Payment will not be coming through the State effective January 1st, 2014
- We will continue to provide your payment until an appropriate plan is developed and agreed upon.
Given the amount of work left to do during implementation, our best guess is a transition several months into the new year at this point.
If you haven’t sent in your Provider Enrollment Agreement, do so now. This is an essential action on your part, regardless of changing timelines.
If you have turned in your PEAA and have received no response back from the State, contact them directly at DD-MH.OHCC@state.or.us. (We initially thought we would be able to send out emails for those who had provider numbers, but the information we have received from the State isn’t in a format that allows us to do so given our limited resources.) Please email the State for assistance on this matter.
Many of you have received requests for W4s, I9s, and Direct Deposit forms. (Oddly, this request also went to Independent Contractors, a designation of providers who do not utilize W4s or I9s in their business practice.) Stranger still, we understand that you’re being told to submit items to brokerages. We have already processed these forms during your initial qualification and we cannot process them a second time. Please send your W9s, I9s, Direct Deposit forms directly to the State at:
Email: info.exprs@state.or.us
Mail: DHS – ITBSU
ATTN: eXPRS User Enrollment
500 Summer Street NE E-12
Salem, OR 97301
Finally, provider organizations who need a provider number should be hearing from the State shortly. We are aware of a transmittal being developed and have heard it should be out within the next week or so.
Unfortunately, the State has not provided a phone number to field your questions. If that changes, we will update you and share the resource. We will continue to update you as we have more clear information. Thank you for your continued patience during this process. Rest assured that your payment will continue to come through us in the interim while these bureaucratic and procedural tangles are dealt with.
by independencenw | Nov 24, 2013 | 2013 changes, advocacy, customers, provider organizations, providers
Independence Northwest continues its community outreach on big changes to brokerage and I/DD services in Oregon. Since August, we’ve held many highly successful community forums presenting to over 300 community members – and we’ve got two more scheduled for the month of December!
Join us if you’d like to learn more about the K Plan, the upcoming needs assessment requirement, new options for case management, plans for a new universal ISP, changes to provider payment and rates and much more.
Remember to RSVP by calling our front desk 503.546.2950. You may also email us at larry.deal@independencenw.org. Space is limited, so reserve your space at one of our evening or day sessions today!
Big thanks to all the families, customers, providers and community members who have joined us in the past few weeks. Your questions, comments, concern and input continue to make a difference in the restructure of the I/DD system!
by independencenw | Oct 2, 2013 | 2013 changes, faces of independence northwest, grants, provider organizations, providers
Providers, Customer Employers, and Community Members,
As you have likely heard by now, the State of Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) has been moving toward changing the way providers of brokerage services are paid.
Since 2001, brokerages have operated as a fiscal intermediary for our customers and we have been responsible for provision of provider payment. For many years, DHS has shared its intent to update its systemic capabilities and pay providers of brokerage services directly instead. It looked like 2013 would be the year things changed.
In May of 2013, DHS sent out a missive to all Personal Support Workers, which included a copy of a Personal Support Worker Provider Enrollment Application and Agreement. The mailer stated “completion of this document is required for you to be on the State Registry” and that “by signing this agreement the state will issue a provider number which will be necessary for payment on or prior to October 1, 2013.”
However, the state’s payment change efforts have experienced continued delays and as a result of these delays payment will continue through brokerages for the time being. We are being told that January 1st, 2014 is the new target date for when you’ll be paid directly through the State.
Our office has begun receiving multiple calls from providers concerned about their payment and where it will come from as a result of the registry and the October 1st, 2013 deadline. We request two things:
1. Please continue to send your invoices and time sheets to Independence Northwest as you always have. We will follow our regular payment schedules for providers and you should experience no disruption in payment.
2. If you have not yet completed a Provider Enrollment Agreement, we implore you to do so. While we can’t be certain the new January 1st, 2014 date will be met, we know that eventually you *will* receive payment through the DHS payment system and you must be set up in order to avoid delay in payment. It’s imperative you have a provider number assigned to you before being paid. Please take a moment to take care of this important piece of business.
Thank you for your continued partnership, efforts and support of our customer base. And thank you for your patience during the current transition.
*Please note: We were told by state employees that provider organizations who are not already set up in the state’s payment system will receive a provider number via the state’s licensing unit. If you have questions about this, please contact Larry Deal at larry.deal(at)independencenw.org. Thanks.
by independencenw | Aug 17, 2012 | clackamas county, provider organizations, providers, resource, training
The folks at Clackamas County Developmental Disabilities Program are offering a great training opportunity for all professionals serving people with disabilities: a one hour training on Abuse Reporting led by Abuse Investigator Brian Pollard.
WHAT: Abuse Reporting Training
WHEN: Tuesday September 18th, 2012 from 11am to 12 noon
WHERE: Clackamas County Public Services Building (2051 Kaen Road Room 369B Oregon City, OR 97045)
Abuse Reporting is geared toward adults eligible for DD Services, their families, Personal Support Workers, Foster Care Providers and staff, Residential and Vocational staff. Adults eligible for DD services are a protected class and therefore those paid to support them are Mandatory Abuse Reporters. The class will address when and how to report abuse and neglect of adults eligible for DD services.
If you are a Personal Support Worker, Domestic Employee or Independent Contractor, we at Independence Northwest strongly urge you consider this training opportunity.
Please contact Robyn Hoffman at 503.557.2872 or robynhof@co.clackamas.or.us for any questions and to RSVP. Space is limited, so please register to reserve your place.
by independencenw | Jan 7, 2012 | domestic employees, independent contractors, provider organizations, providers
A Message for Independent Contractors and Provider Organizations Qualified with Independence Northwest:
It is the policy of Independence Northwest to pay all invoices on a net 30 basis. (This means that we will disburse funds within 30 days of receiving an invoice from a provider.) As a result of this policy we do not adhere to particular invoice due dates or pay dates. However, for independent contractors and provider agencies to be paid in the first cycle of checks each month, we recommend they have their invoices to our office by noon on the following dates in 2012.
Friday, January 6th
Tuesday, February 7th
Tuesday, March 6th
Friday, April 6th
Monday, May 7th
Wednesday, June 6th
Friday, July 6th
Tuesday, August 7th
Thursday, September 6th
Friday, October 5th
Tuesday, November 6th
Thursday, December 6th
A note about postal delivery and direct deposit: We have been offering direct deposit to the entire provider community since August of 2010 and it’s been a great success. It helps us process payments faster and ensures your money lands in your bank account sooner. But now there’s a new reason to consider direct deposit: As you may have read in the news, budgetary cuts to the US Postal Service are expected to result in a significant slowdown of domestic mail. Local mail that previously arrived in one day may soon take three to four days to arrive. In anticipation of this change Independence Northwest is strongly urging all providers to sign up for direct deposit. All providers are being mailed a copy of this letter along with a direct deposit form.
Thank you all for your service to our community. Here’s hoping for a productive and
rewarding 2012.
Ron Spence
Operations Director
rspence(at)independencenw.org
by independencenw | Jan 7, 2012 | community connections, multnomah county, provider organizations, resource
Another great resource from our friends at On The Move Community Integration!
Socializing Colorfully: A Group For Adults with Developmental Disabilities who are Persons of Color
Starts January 27 (REGISTER BY JANUARY 20th!)
WHAT:
Socializing Colorfully is open to all community members of varied ethnicities with diagnosed developmental disabilities who wish to expand their support network and gain a greater sense of cultural pride. Through friendship-building community activities and social opportunities, the program will help to alleviate the social isolation and discrimination experienced by persons of color who have developmental disabilities. The group invites the participation of families and caregivers.
Socializing Colorfully is led by Deborah Waggoner, Community Support Specialist for On-the-Move. Ms. Waggoner is the parent of an African-American woman with Down’s Syndrome, and knows first-hand the real life challenges associated with being a person of color who must navigate disability social services. As a long-time advocate in our community, she has the knowledge, sensitivity and experience to help group members forge a deeper sense of cultural pride, improve support networks and become better informed citizens!
WHERE:
On-the-Move Community Integration
4187 SE Division Street
Portland, Oregon 97202
Contact: On-the-Move Community Integration
503.287.0346
info@onthemoveonline.org
WHEN:
Sessions take place the last Friday of each month
Registration Deadline for the First Session: January 20, Space is Limited
Presented by: On-the-Move Community Integration
Supporting adults with special needs in accessing healthful, meaningful,
and environmentally responsible activities in their community.
More info here: http://onthemoveonline.wordpress.com/2011/11/23/get-ready-for-2012-reading-program-and-socializing-colorfully-start-the-new-year-off-right/
by independencenw | Nov 7, 2011 | caregivers, parenting, provider organizations
Open to all community members! Announcing the Fall Parent Social put on by On-the-Move Community Integration. Meet and socialize with other parents and caregivers who are caring for an adult with developmental disabilities. Wine & appetizers will be served.
Wednesday, November 30th 2011 6:00 -7:30pm On-the-Move Community Integration, located at 4187 SE Division in Portland, Oregon.
Please RSVP to Deborah Waggoner, Community Inclusion Specialist
deborah@onethemoveonline.org
503.287.0346
by independencenw | Aug 28, 2009 | customers, provider organizations, providers, resource
Are you considering a provider organization as a provider of support services? Provider organizations are private organizations certified through the Department of Human Services Licensing Unit. These agencies provide an array of services from site-based activities to supported employment, from community-based skills building to respite for caregivers. Below is a list of provider organizations you might consider. If you find yourself interested in learning more about one of these organizations, contact your Personal Agent here at Independence Northwest.
by independencenw | Aug 24, 2009 | aging into adult services, autism, caregivers, cerebral palsy, clackamas county, community connections, customers, domestic employees, employment, high school transition, independent contractors, multnomah county, provider organizations, providers, resource, training, washington county
Last Friday, the metro area brokerages (Independence Northwest, Inclusion, Mentor Oregon and The Arc Brokerage Services) held the 2009 Resource Fair. The fair was an enormous success. We’re still tallying the attendee count, but it will likely surpass 400! Special thanks to all the vendors who came and presented their resources to metro area brokerage customers. You can check out their services below.
211
Autism Society of Oregon
Bridges to Independence
Child Development and Rehab Center
DePaul Industries
Disability Accomodation Registry and Safety Zone
Disability Compass
Disability Rights Oregon Work Incentives Program
Disabilty Rights Oregon Help America Vote Act Project
Eastco
Edwards Center
Families Supporting Independent LivingGenerations X and Y
Good Shepherd Communities
Goodwill Industries
Happy Trails Riding Center
Independent Police Review
Making Magic Tours
Mentored Learning
Multnomah County Aging and Disability Services
NAMI Multnomah
Off The Couch Activity Night
On the Move
Oregon Office on Disability and Health
PASS
Port City/Project Grow
Portland Community College, Culinary Assistant Program
Quiet Waters Outreach
Ridewise
SDRI
Self Advocates As Leaders
Special Olympics Oregon
The Companion Program/Adventures Without Limits
TNT Management Resources
Trips Inc
*NOTE: Not all vendors listed above provide services that can be paid for through Support Services funding. Some are natural resources and others are available through private pay. Check with your Personal Agent if you have questions.
by independencenw | Aug 24, 2009 | caregivers, independent contractors, provider organizations, providers, resource, training
September 25, 2009 – Supporting Individuals with Sexual Offending Behaviors
Presented by Jim Haaven, MA, Portland, Oregon & Steve Mussack, PhD, Eugene, Oregon
Jim Haaven will open with a discussion around best practices – evidenced based approaches including (but not limited to):
* Importance of sexual awareness training
* Effective teaming for “wrap around” support
* Risk management tools
* Supervision.
Steve Mussack will follow with recommendations for direct support staff and programs focusing on therapeutic practices on the milieu, increasing communication between program and therapy, and methods for support providers to feel supported. A panel presentation will be facilitated by Dr Mussack. The panel discussion will focus on community integration, job placement, legal issues, and overcoming neighborhood mentality.
Host: OTAC – Oregon Technical Assistance Corporation
3886 Beverly Avenue NE
Suite I-21
Salem, OR 97305
Phone: 503-364-9943
Fax: 503-364-1939
Check in at 8:00 am
8:30 to 4:30
Lunch on your own (11:30 – 12:30)
The ONLY local site for this video conference: Oregon State Office Building, 800 NE Oregon St., Portland (45 seats available) **There is no registration fee for this training series** Registration: ** There is no registration fee for this training** Complete 1 registration for each participant by the following method:
To register to attend this training, please visit our website at <http://www.otac.org/gro/training-registration?template=gro>.
If you are registering five (5) or more people, please send an email to Jessica at jkaton@otac.org <mailto:jkaton@otac.org>. She will collect your information and register your group.
You will receive an email confirmation containing the venue’s address and a link to directions, so please enter your email information.
Registration will close on September 17, 2009.
If you have any questions please contact Jessica Katon at 503-364-9943, x 41 or by email at jkaton@otac.org <mailto:jkaton@otac.org>.
by independencenw | Aug 18, 2009 | employment, independent contractors, provider organizations, providers, resource
NOTE: This lecture has been canceled for the remainder of 2009.
The Supported Employment Lecture, Training and Networking Series is for those interested in providing customized supported employment to individuals with developmental disabilities in Oregon. The series will be offered one day each month to discuss employment topics and connect with colleagues from across the state who are also passionate about this work! Each month different specialists will offer the most-up-to-date best practice and training on the topic.
Materials will be provided via the OTAC website www.otac.org/series. “Brownbag lunch” suggested for maximum networking.
For more information contact Debra McLean at dmclean@otac.org
COST: $45.00/session
by independencenw | Aug 16, 2009 | caregivers, clackamas county, customers, domestic employees, independent contractors, multnomah county, provider organizations, providers, resource, washington county
Independence Northwest is partnering with the three other Portland metro area brokerages, Mentor Oregon, Inclusion Inc. and The Arc Brokerage Services to bring you the 2009 Metro Area Resource Fair. There will be barbecue food, games and most importantly vendors and resources for you and your family to check out. This is a great opportunity to meet other community members and expand your knowledge of the local DD community and its resources.
A mailer has gone out to all customers of the four brokerages hosting this event.
Resource Fair Time 1:00pm to 5:00pm
Where: Kaiser Permanente Town Hall – 3704 N. Interstate Ave, Portland
BBQ Time: 2:00pm to 6:00pm
Overlook Park (directly across the street)
by independencenw | Aug 14, 2009 | aging into adult services, asperger syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, clackamas county, customers, data, epilepsy, multnomah county, provider organizations, providers, reports, resource, Turning 18, washington county
Some quick stats on Independence Northwest’s current customer base. Independence Northwest serves 450 adults with disabilities across Multnomah, Clackamas and Washington counties.
Multnomah – 61% of our customer base
Clackamas – 23% of our customer base
Washington – 16% of our customer base
- 65% of our customer base is under the age of 30
- 35% of our customers are between 18 and 21
- 57% of our customers are male; 43% are female
- Over 20% of our customers fall on the Autism Spectrum
- 6% of our customers experience Down Syndrome; another 6% experience Cerebral Palsy;
- 5% of our customers experience Epilepsy; another 5% experience FAS or Drug-Affected Disorders
- 7% of our customers are exclusively non-English speaking
by independencenw | Aug 11, 2009 | advocacy, caregivers, cerebral palsy, customers, independent contractors, policy, provider organizations, providers, resource
Via United Cerebral Palsy‘s Quarterly Family Support Newsletter
Airplane Accessibility Petition
My name is Sally O’Neill. I am 17 years old. Like most girls my age, I love animals, going to the theatre with my friends on the weekend, and skiing in the winter. I dream of traveling after high school. I want to see places like Ireland, Italy, and India. Unfortunately, an accessible airplane ride is not an option for me.
I am writing this because I believe the airline industry should have to comply with the mandates of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. I have cerebral palsy. That means although I have a normal mind, I still have uncontrollable spastic limb movement. I cannot talk or hold my own body upright. I need my wheelchair to keep me in the right posture, and to restrain my arms and legs. The problem is the airline companies make all disabled people check their wheelchair with other baggage. I have visited my grandparents in Ohio and Florida many times. My parents have spent up to 7 hours trying to keep me seated between them. I don’t have the motor function to sit upright on my own. The airplane chairs are not big enough for a seat insert and do not support my upper body. When my shoulders are not in front of my hips, I go into an extension pattern. Due to my spastic limb movement, my parents have to physically restrain my arms and legs. I have strong tone, so this is not easy. None of us can eat, drink, read, or make ourselves comfortable in any other way. As I get older and bigger, each flight gets more difficult.
There are many other disabilities that have this same need for different reasons. I don’t think it makes sense that all other places open to the public are made accessible to every type of disabled person, especially transportation companies, but the airline industry is allowed to force the disabled into able-bodied standards or medical transport. I’ve heard of an airline removing a whole row of seats to accommodate a Sumo wrestler. If they can do that for a special athlete, why can’t they do it for a person with special needs? Have you ever wondered why you see so few people with cerebral palsy on airplanes? I think it’s because the airlines do so little to accommodate their needs to ensure their comfort. It’s discrimination. I looked up online how easy it is to remove any seat on the plane. I’m not asking for the bathrooms to be made accessible.
I am proposing that the first seat in the first row of the airplane be removable and tie downs be inserted. These tie downs are used in automobiles to keep the chair in place during crashes. They are as strong as anything on a plane.
I really believe with some small modifications airplane transportation can be made accessible to everyone. I hope you see the need and join me in this change.
Here is a proposed petition:
We petition the airline industry to better accommodate travelers who use wheelchairs. We propose that the first seat in the first row of the airplane be removable with the capability to have tie downs inserted when needed to accommodate a wheelchair, or that the airlines develop a solution to this urgent need.
If you’d like a copy of the Petition emailed to you, please send an email to the address listed below. We’d appreciate your help in collecting signatures. The important issue here is accessibility. There are a lot of people who cannot comfortably ride in an airplane, or who simply cannot ride at all. We also want to collect stories of your experiences riding in an airplane. Please call or write or send an email. The more stories, the better. And the more signatures, the better!
Susan Blanchard, UCP Family Support
Phone: 503-777-4166, toll-free within Oregon: 1-800-473-4581
Email: sblanchard@ucpaorwa.org
Mail: 11731 NE Glenn Widing Drive, Portland, OR 97220
by independencenw | Aug 11, 2009 | advocacy, aging into adult services, asperger syndrome, autism, caregivers, cerebral palsy, customers, domestic employees, employment, family support plans, high school transition, independent contractors, learning disabilities, policy, provider organizations, providers, resource, training, Turning 18
OrPTI (Oregon Parent Training and Information Center) presents the 2009 Building Futures Conference this October.
Building Futures is for anyone who has an interest in supporting individuals with disabilities as they transition from school to life. This includes Secondary Educators, Post Secondary Educators, Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors, Special Educators, therapists, counselors, service providers, job developers, and other rehabilitation specialists, and especially secondary students with disabilities and their families. Throughout the two-day event there will be presentations by regional and national experts on issues surrounding secondary transition and assistive technology. Check out the agenda here.
Scholarship information can be found here.
by independencenw | Aug 10, 2009 | asperger syndrome, autism, customers, employment, independent contractors, provider organizations, providers, training
The University of Missouri has published Adult Autism & Employment: A Guide for Vocational Rehabilitation Professionals. According to their website, the document is a practical synthesis of existing literature and innovative promising practices. It includes previously unpublished insights and suggestions from a national expert on autism & employment.
To develop this resource, author Scott Standifer consulted closely with James Emmett, one of the few experts with real world experience about employment supports specifically for adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). It is a valuable tool for vocational rehabilitation professionals, employment service providers, and anyone interested in supporting the employment of adults with ASD.
The report includes:
– In-depth descriptions of the wide range of variability among people with ASD
– Accommodations & techniques to use during vocational rehabilitation services
– Traditional vocational rehabilitation techniques which should be avoided
– Possible career issues associated with ASD
– Possible workplace accommodations useful for people with ASD
Check it out here.
Thanks to Tim Kral at ORA for the tip.
by independencenw | Aug 10, 2009 | customers, domestic employees, independent contractors, provider organizations, providers, resource
Independence Northwest is partnering with the three other Portland metro area brokerages, Mentor Oregon, Inclusion Inc. and The Arc Brokerage Services to bring you the 2009 Metro Area Resource Fair. There will be barbecue food, games and most importantly vendors and resources for you and your family to check out. This is a great opportunity to meet other community members and expand your knowledge of the local DD community and its resources.
A mailer has gone out to all customers of the four brokerages hosting this event.
Resource Fair Time 1:00pm to 5:00pm
Where: Kaiser Permanente Town Hall – 3704 N. Interstate Ave, Portland
BBQ Time: 2:00pm to 6:00pm
Overlook Park (directly across the street)
by independencenw | Aug 7, 2009 | caregivers, customers, data, disability history, domestic employees, employment, independent contractors, policy, provider organizations, providers, reports, resource
United Cerebral Palsy released its 4th annual report on The Case for Inclusion yesterday. The report ranks all 50 States and the District of Columbia on how well they are providing community-based supports to Americans with intellectual and developmental disabilities being served by Medicaid.
Oregon ranks 20th. Our state-specific details are here.
State by state ranking:
1. Vermont
2. Arizona
3. Alaska
4. New Hampshire
5. Massachusetts
6. Michigan
7. California
8. Hawaii
9. Colorado
10. Connecticut
11. New Mexico
12. Delaware
13. Minnesota
14. New York
15. Idaho
16. Pennsylvania
17. South Carolina
18. Florida
19. Rhode Island
20. Oregon
21. New Jersey
22. Wisconsin
23. West Virginia
24. Kansas
25. Washington
26. South Dakota
27. Montana
28. Wyoming
29. Missouri
30. Oklahoma
31. Georgia
32. Maryland
33. Alabama
34. Nevada
35. Maine
36. North Carolina
37. Utah
38. Kentucky
39. Iowa
40. North Dakota
41. Virginia
42. Indiana
43. Tennessee
44. Nebraska
45. Ohio
46. Louisiana
47. Illinois
48. District of Columbia
49. Texas
50. Arkansas
51. Mississippi
From the UCP website on the 2009 report:
- Positively, there are 1,536 fewer Americans living in large state institutions (more than 16 beds). This is a bigger drop than seen last year. However, there remain 169 large institutions (4 fewer) housing 36,175 Americans;
- Negatively, only nine states (down from 11) report more than 2,000 residents living in large public or private institutions – California, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania & Texas;
- Sustaining the 2008 level, 19 states, but up from 16 in 2007, have more than 80 percent of those served living in home-like settings;
- Positively, seven states – Alaska, Arizona, Michigan, New Hampshire, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Vermont- direct more than 95 percent of all related funds to those living in the community rather than in large institutions. Colorado directs a very close 94.6% of funds;
- Positively, five states – Idaho, Louisiana, North Carolina, Ohio and Texas – as well as the District of Columbia experienced at least a five percent increase in people served in the community (HCBS waiver).
- Negatively, Wisconsin reduced number of people served in the community (HCBS waiver) by more than five percent;
- Nationally, 29 states direct more than 80 percent of all related funding to those living in the community;
- Positively, 39 states, up from 33, report having a Medicaid Buy-In program supporting individuals as they go to work and increase their earnings; and
- In terms of rankings, in total, 15 states had a sizable change in rankings over last two years. Pennsylvania (to #16 from #29 in 2007, dropping one place from 2008) and Missouri (to #29 from #41, dropping one place from 2008) improved the most with Wyoming (to #28 from #17) and Maine (to #35 from #24) dropping the most in the rankings.
Via DAWG Oregon and UCP
by independencenw | Aug 6, 2009 | advocacy, caregivers, customers, domestic employees, independent contractors, policy, provider organizations, providers
Disability Rights Oregon (DRO) is asking community members to help determine where to focus their advocacy efforts in the coming year. Let your voice be heard by taking the survey.
From the DRO website: Disability Rights Oregon (DRO) is a nonprofit that advocates for the rights of people with disabilities. Each year DRO decides how to allocate its resources based in part on information collected through this Community Needs Survey. We recognize that the list of important issues facing individuals with disabilities is very long; however, due to limited resources DRO cannot give equal attention to every issue. This survey is a tool for you to tell us what you think are the most pressing issues facing individuals with disabilities in Oregon.
