Why We Can’t Wait: 5 Steps DC Must Take to Safeguard the Health and Well Being of People with Disabilities of All Ages During the COVID19 Pandemic.

The following is a summary of five major actions called for in #WeCantWait #HighRiskCOVID19 #DC -- an open letter sent to Mayor Bowser and the Council – on safeguarding the health and independence of people with disabilities of all ages during the pandemic.   

Action 1:  Identify and address unmet needs in HCBS during COVID19 NOW!

Why? Every State has people with unmet HCBS needs even in good times. But for the reasons previously stated, such needs will grow as COVID19 takes its course. Unfortunately, DC is one of the few states that has always unwisely refused to keep a waiting list for either of its Medicaid-funded HCBS waivers.  We, therefore, do not know how much unmet need there is or anything about those whose needs are not being met.

The District must immediately activate an easy way for people to report and have their unmet needs addressed. 

Action 2: Expand DC HCBS waiver eligibility and coverage NOW!

Why? We know that large numbers with HCBS needs do not meet current eligibility requirements or receive services under either of DC waiver.   Furthermore, most people who need this type of assistance to live at home and in their community receive much or all of it from family and friends.  In troubled times like now, many of these networks of support will breakdown and disappear. 

The Mayor and Council must:  

#1:   Expand current waivers or seek additional one, including through emergency legislation, if necessary. 

#2:   Identify and carry out all other steps it can take to address the problem immediately. 

Recommendations on what such steps should include will be offered in the coming days.

Action 3: Support Families Now!   

Why? Nationally, families – mostly mothers and wives – provide much and often all the support and assistance that children, adults, and older persons with disabilities need to live in our community.  They face enormous stresses and strains in the best times. These will grow far more as the pandemic unfolds. 

Ways must be pursued now to ease/prevent this.  Not after it is too late.  

Action 4: Fund the DSP Wage Act NOW!

Why? Even in typical times it is difficult to retain direct support professionals (DSPs). Many have multiple jobs just to make ends meet. During COVID19, they are putting their lives, livelihoods, and their families on the line.

The Direct Service Workers Act must be fully funded so that these workers who are taken for granted are afforded a living wage, benefits, and high regard they deserve from our city NOW.  Fund it NOW!  

Action 5:   Make Clear Disability Discrimination Will Not Be Tolerated NOW!

Why?   There are alarming reports from across the country that people with disabilities are being denied COVID19 tests and treatment due to prejudice that stamp them as “less than” and therefore, more disposable than all others.  

DC must use all District and federal disability human and civil rights laws to prevent and end this discrimination.

COVID19 demands we take all 5 actions NOW.  

The open letter was signed on to by over 20 DC residents with disabilities, family members, advocates and organizations.  See it NOW!  For further information, contact Bob Williams:   rrw1957@gmail.com