| » Health Care Access » Disability Rights » Adult Protective Services » Employment |
» Transportation » Long-Term Care Services » Housing » Research |
» Health Care Access
- Access to quality health care is essential for
people living with multiple sclerosis. The disease-modifying
therapies alone can cost more than $1,000 per month, and many
people with MS also take a number of medications to manage their
symptoms. Coverage for rehabilitation services, preventative
health care and durable equipment is vital. Those with MS should
have access to adequate, affordable health-care coverage
regardless of their income.
The PA CAN will work to educate and engage legislators and
constituents about the severe gaps in affordable health care and
coverage available in Pennsylvania. We also will develop a
long-term, grassroots plan to secure adequate access to health
care for people with MS and other adult-onset disabilities.
» Adult Protective Services - The PA CAN supports the creation
of adult protective services that would protect people between
the ages of 18-59 who have been abused or neglected. The PA CAN
is working with a coalition of groups to ensure that legislation
is passed and that an adult protective services system is
created.
» Disability Rights for people living with MS and other
disabilities. Many obstacles can inhibit quality of life and
community participation. We work to remove barriers to physical
accessibility, prevent discrimination and sustain independence.
The landmark American Disabilities Act (ADA) opened many doors
for people living with disabilities. The PA CAN will continue to
ensure that Pennsylvania residents with disabilities have full
access to activities that give meaning to their lives.
» Long-term Care Services - The progress, severity and symptoms
of multiple sclerosis in any one person cannot yet be predicted.
Nearly a quarter of individuals living with MS will require
long-term care support and services at some point during the
course of the disease. The PA CAN is dedicated to helping people
living with MS and their families secure these critical
services.
Long-term care support and services include a continuum of
preventative, diagnostic, rehabilitative, therapeutic,
supportive and maintenance services. They address the long-term
health, social and personal needs of individuals with a chronic
disability like MS.
» Transportation - Pennsylvanians with disabilities need access
to appropriate transit services that will allow them to fully
participate in the workforce and in community life. This
includes supporting improved access and expansion of accessible
transportation for individuals seeking health-care, employment
and leisure activities beyond the boundaries of the public
transportation system.
» Housing - People with MS need access to affordable, accessible
housing in order to remain with their families in the community.
The PA CAN will focus on supporting the development of a range
of housing alternatives as well as securing appropriate funding
for home modifications, safety evaluations and tax credits.
» Employment - Individuals with MS face employment
discrimination and often have trouble getting work
accommodations necessary to fit their disabilities. The PA CAN
supports expanded vocational rehabilitation services as well as
mandated education and vocational training for some National MS
Society staff.
» Research - The PA CAN supports legislation that would
encourage local research initiatives directed towards a cure for
multiple sclerosis. We will actively purse public funding for
MS-related biomedical rehabilitation, stem cell research and
research on quality of life issues.
Speak Out
Please take a moment to contact us and let us know!
