Pathways Newsletter
UCP works to stop health care fee increases
From the Director
During these tough economic times, there are many issues that affect people with disabilities, and we are working with our partners to minimize the negative effects and maximize the positive.
Families not on Medicaid that use Children’s Special Health Care Services, which provides services and support for families of children with significant disabilities or chronic health conditions, are charged a fee to enroll in the program. We are working to stop action in the state Senate to raise the fee. Such families do not need an additional expense.
We are providing comments on proposed changes to the Medicaid policy regarding payment for wheelchairs. We want to ensure the policy promotes independence and allows people to receive specialized wheelchairs that provide proper positioning and prevent pressure sores.
We are also working with other disability partners regarding the use of seclusion and restraints of students in schools. A national report, “School Shouldn’t Hurt,” reviews student deaths and injuries that occurred during seclusion and/or restraint. Our goals to “eliminate seclusion and prone restraint and limit and regulate all other forms of restraint used in educational settings.” The coalition is looking for stories of restraint and seclusion in Michigan to use toward our goals. If you are willing to share a story, please contact us at UCP Michigan.
Amendments to the Americans with Disabilities Act have become effective since our winter newsletter. Interpretations by courts around the country had diminished the act’s impact, but the act is now back in line with Congress’ original intent in 1990.
Let us know what disability issues are confronting you.
View a Printer-Friendly Version
Go back to top