Supports for Nova Scotians with Physical Disabilities

Many people with physical disabilities will gain more control over the decisions that affect their daily lives with the Self Managed Care Program, Health Minister Angus MacIsaac said today, Dec. 19, as he launched the new program.

"By providing funds directly to Nova Scotians for support services, they can achieve maximum independence," said Mr. MacIsaac. "The self manager approach allows clients to oversee the care and supports they require for daily living."

A similar program, piloted more than 10 years ago, continues to provide funding to eight of the 10 original clients.

"The success of the pilot and the feedback we have heard from Nova Scotians through the 2005 continuing care consultations were instrumental in the development of this program," said Mr. MacIsaac.

The government announced $500,000 in the 2005-06 budget to launch the program. Some of the clients involved in the pilot program, as well as Independent Living Resource Centre representatives, helped develop the program and policies.

"My experience in the pilot program enabled me to gain increased independence, and now that independence will be available to other Nova Scotians with disabilities," said Dan MacLellan, a self manager. "This type of program will give people more control and flexibility to lead active lives in the community, in the workplace, higher education, volunteer activities, and their families."

The Self Managed Care Program is suitable for many Nova Scotians who have stable, long-term needs and who are able to take on the responsibilities outlined in the program.

Referrals to the program can be made through the continuing care toll-free intake telephone line at 1-800-225-7225.

Individuals referred to the Self Managed Care Program undergo an assessment by a Department of Health program care co-ordinator. A care plan is developed with the client, outlining the services that will be funded. Supports may include personal care (personal hygiene, dressing, etcetera) and home support activities (meal preparation, cleaning, laundry, etcetera), however the care plan may also be able to respond to unique situations and needs.

The Department of Health provides monthly funds to clients who are then responsible for hiring, training and compensating their care providers. The program has established a mandatory orientation session for clients.

A client may be required to pay a fee based on income and family size. The maximum fee is $600 per month, and may be reduced or waived based on the individual's financial assessment, similar to the province's home care program.

The program has a monthly funding limit, which is currently $3,500. This includes the costs of all services provided to the client in the community by the Department of Health's Continuing Care branch. This would, for example, also include home care, but not home oxygen services.

More information about the program is available on the Department of Health website at www.gov.ns.ca/health/ccs/default.htm .