Ed: we are collecting things about the DSP that need reform. They cost very little but they are a source of grief for those living with disabilities. If you know something that needs fixing, let us know.
Reform # 13 – emergency assistance
For people living with disabilities, life is often a world of changes, many negative. The adaptation used last year may become useless when one’s health declines. Frankly, status quo is a luxury we don’t enjoy.
The DSP process involves an annual review where needs of the person living with disability can be discussed with the DSP case worker. Any change in needs can be identified and dealt with. That’s the theory. In the past year, new needs were usually met with a “no money honey” policy.
If the person living with the disability has a change before the annual meeting, there is no mechanism or support for the DSP to help. This probably seems ludicrous to most people. Would you wait a year to get medical attention for a serious illness. Talk about your wait times!
Here’s an example. Sally (not real name but a real story) has MS and her condition is getting worse. She is developing sores on her butt and legs due to sitting. Some of them are bigger than a man’s thumb. Her doctor and occupational therapist diagnose the problem. She needs an air seat cushion to relieve her pressure sores.
The DSP will not deal with this issue. Sally must wait until her next annual DSP review. What does she do in the meantime?
The DSP is part and parcel of the health care system in many cases. People living with disabilities need medical help. The DSP must reform itself to deal with that reality.
Leave a Reply