Michigan Advocates ‘Frustrated’ by Lack of State Action on Health Initiatives for Disabled

Michigan is "dragging its feet" to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and implement a "comprehensive long-term care system" for people with disabilities, according to ADAPT, a disability rights organization, and other advocates, the Detroit Free Press reports. Activists are concerned that the state has not addressed a 1999 report by state legislators and health department officials that outlines four care coordination models and goals such as allowing people to receive care at home rather than in nursing facilities. The Free Press reports that thus far, the state has completed a campaign to promote long-term care insurance and gave $7 million in grants to agencies for improvements such as professional development for geriatric nurses and respite care for caregivers. In addition, the state Legislature is "discussing" a dozen health care bills that would address measures in the report. "The [1999] report is a live document that is not sitting on the shelf," state Department of Community Health Director Jim Haveman said. But advocates are frustrated that another year could pass "without much innovation" in health reforms for the disabled and point out that the "state is stalling on at least one program that fits the mission of the report." The state continues to freeze enrollment in the Home and Community Based Waiver program, which helps Medicaid beneficiaries receive discounted medical services at home instead of in a nursing home. Haveman said the state lacks the funds to lift the freeze, adding the program has been abused and needs to be reformed (Edgar, Detroit Free Press, 9/19).