Increase Access to Services Project
For many individuals who receive Medicaid funding, at the age of 21 the services of occupational, physical and speech therapies abruptly end.
In addition to the loss of PT, OT, and Speech services, adults with disabilities face another barrier. Day habilitation programs are not funded to cover the costs of specialized medical supports. Individuals who need oxygen, suctioning to keep airways clear and catheterization are turned away from day services because programs cannot afford the cost of a nurse to oversee those medical procedures.
These services are vital in order to prevent the inevitable loss of skills that will come in the absence of therapy as well as to support individuals with medical needs to allow them to participate in programs designed to increase their independence and ability to function in the world around them. DPI serves many individuals that need these supports, but who could not acquire funding to cover the costs.
To meet these needs, DPI started the Increase Access to Services Project.
Current Project