RespiteMatch.com Health Blog

For consumers with newly acquired disabilities, the consumer needs to understand his/her condition from both a medical perspective and what it will mean to live with a disability. Physicians should discuss with the consumer physical changes, probable care needs, possible complications and other things to watch for related to the disability. Peer support should be offered to each consumer. Peer support is available through the local Independent Living Center, as well as various disability specific support groups.
Consumers should know their right to receive services in the most integrated setting and who to contact if they feel that right is not being fulfilled.
The consumer needs to have a firm understanding of what assistance he/she will need or want and how to best benefit from the available assistance.
The consumer needs to understand what services and supports are available to meet his/her needs and desires. The discharge planner needs to know what services are available to meet the needs and desires of the consumer and the eligibility requirements of available services and supports.
As long-term planning, consumers should be given information on what services or supports are available, and contact information for assistance and advocacy, should their needs change.
The consumer and discharge planner must have a clear understanding of the role of any informal supports. The consumer and discharge planner should candidly explain this role to the informal supports in order to ensure that they understand their role. If informal supports have agreed to be part of the Discharge Plan, the consumer and discharge planner must ensure that the informal supports understand what will happen if they do not fulfill their role.
Consumers need to understand what types of services and supports their medical insurance will cover and for what public benefits they may be eligible. Discharge planners should be familiar with basic guidelines for Medicare and Medicaid coverage, and refer consumers to the appropriate person or entity that can explain specific coverage benefits and limitations.
Consumers should have a firm understanding of their rights to appeal adverse decisions.