UBC News

Pediatric Disability Support Just Got a Boost—What New OPWDD Enrollment Means

Episode Summary

Did you know you could be receiving free disability care through the OPWDD in New York? Explore the many benefits that you and your family may qualify for, as explained by a local provider. Learn more at https://ameliahomecareny.com/pediatric-home-care/

Episode Notes

OPWDD, or the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities, is the primary source of disability resources for New York residents. However, despite the availability of aid through the office, thousands of families still go without adequate assistance in the ongoing care of their loved ones.

The Bronx-area provider Amelia Home Care recently explained exactly what services families can secure through the OPWDD program—including a wide range of pediatric services now available for free for enrollees. Let’s explore what they had to say, and find out how the Office could completely transform your life, and the life of your loved one.

As per a recent update to the Office’s guidelines, anyone enrolled in the program may now receive pediatric disability care for free, including Hygiene assistance, Occupational Therapy, Medication Assistance, help with Feeding & Nutrition, Behavioral Health services, and Much More. These services are provided by local partners to the program, and are built around the needs of the individual to ensure that an excellent quality of care can be maintained. Family involvement is, of course, heavily encouraged—the primary benefit of these services is that disability patients can receive the comprehensive care they require without leaving the familiar household setting, while still offering family caregivers the opportunity to rest as needed.

One recent addition to the program is the ability of patients to receive career support through the OPWDD and, by extension, through Amelia Home Care. The Office now offers resources specifically designed to help young people with limited mobility and cognitive impairments meet their employment goals and achieve fulfillment in their professional lives.

The Office will also now fund the purchase and installation of "Home Enabling Supports", or rather, devices designed to make a home environment more accessible to disability patients. Vouchers are available for personal mobility devices as well as home modifications, covering a wide range of renovations and technologies.

Application to in-home care programs often requires the submission of medical documents both to the Office and to the care provider. These documents typically include records of the patient’s diagnosis, past medical care, and medication requirements.

Enrollment in the OPWDD program is conducted through regional offices located throughout New York. Click the link in the description for more information regarding available resources and the enrollment process. Amelia Home Care City: Brooklyn Address: 3007 Ocean Parkway Website: https://www.ameliahomecareny.com/