DRP Issues Statement on the Passage of Senate Bill 506, Strengthening Pennsylvania’s Guardianship Laws
disability rights pennsylvania
Disability Rights Pennsylvania Invites Public Comment
The last year has been an exceptionally difficult year for all Americans, but for the disability community, it has been especially taxing. As our world has changed, many needs have become heightened and have shifted. We would like to hear your opinions on our program comment period for our fiscal year 2022 annual program goals and objectives. Disability Rights Pennsylvania (DRP) invites public feedback on the issues that matter most to individuals with disabilities, along with the families and organizations supporting them. August 1, 2021 will be the final day to offer public comments.
DRP will also be hosting 8 forums for community members to communicate directly with DRP on our Goals and Objectives. If you would like to be notified of upcoming forums, join our mailing list for upcoming information on how to register.
Specifically, DRP asks to hear your ideas about the impact of COVID-19, and any associated advocacy that should be facilitated because of the virus, the vaccination process, as well as current, new, and emerging issues since last year’s comment period. If you would like to view our current goals and objectives, please use this link.
We thank you for your time, community, partnership, and collaboration. We look forward to hearing from you.
– All of us at Disability Rights Pennsylvania
Disability Rights Pennsylvania
301 Chestnut Street Suite 300 | Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17101
800-692-7443 | intake@disabilityrightspa.org
Direct Care Workers Policy Clarification
From the Department of Human Services:
The Wolf Administration is committed to serving more people in the community whenever possible, and we believe that the work performed by direct care workers (DCWs), including personal attendants and other household aides, enables individuals with disabilities to live a more independent life. We have heard from many people asking for a policy clarification on the types of non-skilled, home care services and activities that DCWs can perform in home- and community-based settings.
Last week, the Wolf Administration issued a policy clarification surrounding the role of DCWs.
The non-skilled activities provided in the consumer’s place of residence or other independent living environment are specialized care, a type of home care service unique to the consumer’s care needs that are exempt from the licensure requirements under the Professional Nursing Law and Practical Nurse Law.
DCWs may perform these non-skilled services/activities, with evidence of competency or training, provided they do not represent or hold themselves out as being licensed nurses, licensed registered nurses, or registered nurses; or use in connection with their names, any designation tending to imply they are licensed to practice nursing.
Individuals with disabilities will have a greater chance of remaining in their homes and community when they are able to receive assistance with long-term supports and services from DCWs. These non-skilled, routine activities/services include:
- assistance with bowel and bladder routines;
- assistance with medication;
- ostomy care;
- clean intermittent catheterization;
- assistance with skin care; and
- wound care.
DHS appreciates the partnership with the departments of Health and State and the collaboration with ADAPT and Disability Rights Pennsylvania in issuing this important policy clarification. Further guidance will be issued as appropriate to ensure successful implementation.
IDD Update February 23, 2016
Guardianship Policies
RCPA member Will Stennett from Family Services of Western PA is asking members to share with him any policies or procedures regarding guardianship, wills, and/or disposition of property for residents.