The resource guide for people with disabilities and their families in Georgia

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FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

I

.

AND THEIR FAMILIES IN GEORGIA



This is a publication of the Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities for Georgia in collaboration with the Institute on Human Development and Disability at The UniversitY of Georgia. Produced ~nder grant #G-9901-GABSll from the Administration on Developmental Disabilities, Administration on Children & Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities 2 Peachtree Street NW, Suite 3-210 Atlanta, GA 30303-3142
(404) 657-2126; Fax (404) 657-2132 Toll Free: 1-888-275-4233 http://www.ga-ddcouncil.org/
Sherry Lee, Editor Institute on Human Development and Disability a unit of the College of Family and Consumer Sciences
The University of Georgia
First printing December 1999


"Independence, productivity and inclusion are key ele,rlentsJor people with disabilities. Independence is thle extent to which we assert control and choice ove1 our lives. Productivity allows us to contribute to households and communities. Inclusion or inte$ation make community resources available to ALL \people allowingJor contact and interactions with others. "
-. Tools For Life, Section 1, page 12




Acknowledgements

I would like tp thank all agencies that provided updated information for this

resource guide. I also wish to thank Iris McUvaine and Marcey DoIgoff who

directed the rlpdate process and John Weber who provided technical and

editorial assi~tance.

.

\

- Sherry Lee

GOVERNOR'S
COUNCIL ON
DEVELOPMENTAL
DISABILITIES

February 10, 2003

, Attention Resource <:;uide Patron:

.

. The Governor's counhil on Developmental Disabilities is committed to providing the most
current and accurate ~fonnation possible to all ofGeof!~ia's citizens. In an effort to prov~de

such infonnation, the Council has produced this small supplement for Resource Guide users

so that you may supplkt the infonnation on the service delivery system. The Council has
plans to completely u~date the Resource Guide during 2003, however this infonnation is

essential to navigating! the system as it stands today.

.

~f There have been seve1 changes in,the state service delivery system since the publishing

this Resource Guide irl1999. Legislation was passed in 2002 renaming the Division of I
Mental Health, Mental Retardation, and Substance Abuse to the Division of Mental
Retardation, Develo~m~ntalDisabilities, and Addictive Disease (MHDDAD). In

addition to the name change, the Regional structtire has shifted from 13 to 7 Regions, and the
numbe~ of Communi~Service Board~ (CSB) has been r~duced. Please substitute the

attached supplement for pages 13-21 In the Resource GUIde. Thank you and as always,

please feel free to contact the Council should you have any questions.

.

Th1 Governor's Council on Jevelopmental Disabilities

2 Peachtree Street, N.W. Suite 8-210

Atlanta, Georgia 30303

(404) 657-2126

1-888-ASK-GCDD (Toll Free)

(404) 657-2133 TDD

www.gcdd.org

Lynnette W. Bragg, Chairperson Eric E. Jacobson, Executive Director .
Eighth Floor Suite 210 Two Peachtree Street, N.W. Atlanta, Georgia 30303 (404) 657-2126 Fax (404) 657-2132 TOD (404) 657-2133 Toll Free (888) 275-4233



CONTENTS Th~ Resource Guide for Peo{lIe with Disabilities and their Families m Georgia .



A User's Guide

~ ..5

PART I - Jaws and Service Delivery Systems

..

for pe11e with Disabilities

.

Developmental Disability Systems

Important riws Affecting People with Disabilities

Department 1of Human Resources

Department 1of Community Healt~

Regional and Community Boards

Developmen1tal Disabilities Network Georgia Te~porary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

. . ' l . Medicaid (IJdex, pages 31-33)

;

~;

Medicare (Index, page 73)

;

~ 13
15 ~ 16 ~ 17
22 27
35
75

Social seculty

Social Security Disability Benefits (SSDI)

87

Supplementall Security Income (551) ........................................92

Supplemental Security Income Benefits for

Adults with Disabilities

:

98

Social securitY Administrative Offices

:;

101

Rehabi1itati~n Services

Division. of RIbhabilitation Services

.~

107

DRS Office Locations

111 .

Rehabl'Il'tatl.onI Fac'l1l"tles

;.

116

I

3

Children's Supports

Children's Medical Services (CMS)

District CMS Offices

;

Early Intervention ;



Resources for Adoptions

123

126 128

o

132

Part II - Support Networks

Education

.Educational Assistance

137

Educational Scholarships

141

Georgia Learning Resources System (GLRS)

146

Employment

Employment

151

Housing Housing Resources
Independent Living

', ,'155

it

1 6 0 " 0,

Resources Cultural Diversity and Disability Deaf and Hard of Hearing Network Information and Referral Services Libraries and Research Centers

165

166 167

o

171

Sources for free and Reduced-Cost care in Georgia (Index, page 175)........................................................................... 177

Support Services .

Computer and Related Technology Financial Planning ~

~

203

205

Le,gal Assista.nce........................................................................208

Sports Aetivities

~

210

13x Exemptions

212

Telecomm.unications..~



213

navel Opportunities....................................................................214

Advocacy

a

n

d

S
,

uppor

t

Group

s.......,..................................221

o

4

A User's Guide, '


.'

Who should use this book? Promoting indepenaence, productivity and
community integratio~ for people with disabilities is a major aim of the <;Jovernor's Council on Developmental Disabilities. This book provides people with disabi1itie~ and their families, friends and advocates with information to discover and access the funding, sJpports, counselor assistance, and services they need to experience
independence, productivity and indusion. ntis book can also be used by providers,
service coordinators, cbmmunity developers, social workers, supe~isors, physicians, and direct-care service wo~kers as a resource in planning with people *ith disabilities and coordinating services ~mong providers to meet. the needs and support the dreams of consumers
and families.

Developing a Resource Plan Resources are limited in Georgia; therefore, it
may take a while to lorlate the appropriate resources for which a petson is eligible, assemble the necessary informaqon and documentation required, apply for assistance and wait for assistance to begin. It will h1elp to think about what kind of resource a persf>n is .looking for (residential, social, medical, inqependent living, supported employment, vocational, educational or general financial, etc.) and make some notes. Once
I
having decided on the kinds of support a person . is looking for, it's time tIo get started. ,

Getting Started

I

If a person needs help with reading,

I writing, planning or using the telephone, ask
someone to help.

Get a pencil or pen and a pad of paper, a

calendar, and develop, a!list of questions to get the

most out of each request for information. Begin by making a li~t of the kinds of supports
and services a person n~eds. Then, using the list

, I . as a guide, look througJi the table of contents to

i
I I
I

see if there are any programs or information sources that may meet these needs and either list them or check them in the table of contents.
Read through these topics one at a time to see if the program can provide what the person needs and to see if he/she meets their basic eligibility requirements. Use a separate sheet of paper to record contact information for programs for which the person meets basic eligibility requirements. If nothing seems appropriate when looking through the table of contents the first time, look back through and begin reading through different topics until something that seems relevant to the person's needs is found. Check to see if the person meets the criteria. Then add these programs to the contact list.
Getting information about the right'program can be frustrating. Some program information lines are so busy that it can take a long time to get through to reach a menu and especially to get to talk to someone who can answer questions, give needed information or send the forms that are needed. It is sometimes difficult to find a resource for which a person is eligible. Be persistent in following through with a plan to obtain information. Don't become discouraged if nothing seems to be the right thing right away.
Always make notes of calls and include the name of individual people contacted. Jot down the dates of calls; it will be helpful if the agency must be contacted again. Sometimes a call to one agency can lead to many other resources so keep a pad and pendl handy to record any new referrals that are given. Ask for the telephone number and the name of a person to contact when given a referral. This saves lots of time.
Almost all programs and funding sources require a person to provide certain basic information and documentation in order to process an application and determine eligibility for program benefits. It will save time and aggravation to gather ,some basic information before beginning to make direct contacts with agencies. Some
5

agencies may allow application by telephone and then request that the person mail proof of his/her statements later. Following is a list of basic information that may be requested when a person calls to ask for information or to make an application.

What is Needed for an Application? when applying for financial help from state/
federal government programs, a person will need specific information. This includes records that will verify the information given. Some government agencies allow a person to apply by phone and mail proof of his/her statements later. Gather and have as much information as possible you
when you call. However, a person should applY
even ifhe/she doesn't have all the things listed.
Social Security can help obtain whatever documentation is needed.
Birth certificate or other proof of age (a census record, insurance policy. a school record. a baptismal record)
Payroll slips, bank bookS, insurance policies, car registration, burial fund records
Social Security card or record of the number
Letters or forms that shows the person's income from SoCial Security, 551, Veterans Administration (VA), retirement or other sources of income
Insurance policies. bank statements (checking and savings)
Information about property the person owns or is buying or having transferred
Information about the home where the person lives, such as the person's mortgage or lease and landlord's name
Health insurance information Medical and nonmedical records describing the
physical and mental condition of the person .with the disability Names, addresses and telephone numbers of doctors, hospitals and clinics that have treated the person with the disability Proof of U.S. citizenship or eligible noncitizen status l,)npaid medical bills If married, a marriage certificate

What to say when contacting

a resource or agency.

.

When contacting an agency, explain the needs

of the person with the disability as clearly as

possible. Make sure to speak with the appropriate
o person so everything does not have to be repeated
if the call must be transferred to another person. Once. the service provider suggests a program that might fit the person's needs, ask questions. Here is a list of questions that will help obtain the essential information about the program.

Who is eligible? What are the limitations of the program or
agency? (What doesn't the agency cover?) 'TYpes of services covered? What is the application process? Is there an application deadline? What information will the agency want? What records are needed; should they be
originals or copies? Is an agency referral required for a person to
take part in this program? . ~hat information can you send about this
program? Is there an appeal process if a person's
application gets turned down? Do you know of other programs or
agencies that might help?
Remember to keep notes about what a person needs handy to helpyou answer questions about what kind Q/funding/resources are being sought.

o

Making COntact and Gathering Information The next step is to begin contacting the
programs or funding sources identified in the preliminary search. Go to the contact list and begin to contact the programs/agencies identified that may be able to offer funding, support or services.

Which Program Should be COntacted First? One way to begin is by contacting major public
programs such as Medicaid. Medicare, Social Security, Rehab or Children's Services that were listed.
Or, begin by looking through the section on Advocacy/Resources. A local advocacy group or a group dealing with a specific disability or. type of service can be a potential source of assistance in the search for services and supports.
o For people with disabilities, an important part
of the process of searching for resources can be to learn how to advocate for and speak up for oneself. Being assertive can help people with

6



disabilities and others who are helping them to
obtain necessary inforrhation. Many advocacy
groups can help peoplelwith disabilities and others who want to assist them learn and practice advocacy skills. They ritay be able to provide
someone who has had ~ome experience in searching for supports or se~ices to help you with a
person's search for resources. They may have information on grants 6r other funding sources.
Remember to keep t~ack of contacts with
agencies/resources afte1r the application and necessary paperwork haI s been filed.





Resource Guide Users, Please Note...

This guide is an attempt to compile. in one place. a wide variety lof information about resources available to people with disabilities in Georgia. It is by nb means a complete listing of resources availablb. It would be impossible. given budget and siz~ constraints. to compile a
complete listing of re~ources. Also. new re-
sources are constantly being developed and existing resources are constantly changing so that by the time ths rbsoufce guide is printed
I
and disseminated. it is likely that some of the information containetJ herein will have become obsolete.
If you come across an error. find out about a change or know of a resource that you think should be listed in th~ next revision of this
I
book. please share this information with
.I

Marcey Dolgoff at (404) 657-2130 or by e-mail: mldolgoff@dhr.state.ga.us
By definition. then. this resource guide is incomplete. The choice of which programs to list and which to leave out was largely a function of the information that was readily available to the compiler and reflects neither a recommendation of those programs that are listed. nor any slight to those whose names do not appear in this guide.
It is the hope of those who have worked on this project that the information contained in this guide will be helpful to people with disabilities and their families as they search for services and supports that can assist with community integration and improve the quality of their lives.

7





II

. Laws and Service ,

Delivery Systems for People



. With Disabilities .







II

Developmental Disabilities Systems






Important Lr'ws Aff~,cting

People with Disabilities

Rehabili~ation Section 504 of'thl

Act of 1973

This law ~as the first federal civil rights law to protect people with disabilities. Its

language is very similar to other civil rights legislation applying to discrimination on the
basis of race and ~ex. The Law "establishes a mandate to end discrimination and to bring

handicapped persdns into the mainstream of American life." It provides that:

I

I

No otherwise qualified handicappedperson shall on the basis ofhandicap, be

excludedfrom pafticipation in, be denied the benefits of, or otherwise be 'Subjected to

discrimination under any program or activity which receives or benefits from Federal fimanClQ. I assi.stancIe.
The final r~gulations for Section 504 were published in the May.4, 1977 issue of the Federal Regist~r, Vol. 42, No. 86. A copy can be obtained through yoUr

Representative in Congress or by contacting:

I

Regional Director

United States Department of Education I
Office for Civil Rights, Region IV

G+ 61 Forsyth!Street SW, Suite 19T70
Atlanta, 3030~

(404) 562-6350

I
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) The ADA +as signed into law in 1990 (pL 101-336). The ADA is much like
Section 504 of the ~ehabilitation Act of 1973 and extends civil rights protection to persons with disabilities in private sector employment, public services, public accommodation, trlmsportation, and telecommunications. Under ADA a person with a

disability is one w40 1) has a mental or physical impairment that substantially limits that person in a major life activity; 2) has a record of such an impairment; or 3) who is

regarded as having!such an impairment. Though the law was enacted in 1990, not all

parts went into effect at the same time; specific requirements are still being clarified.

Copies and inform~tion regarding The Americans with Disabilities Act are available

from:

I,

ADA Techriical Assistance Program Southeast ~iI sability and Business Technical Assistance Center

490 Tenth Street
Atlanta, G~ 30309 I'
(800) 949-4Q32 (V/TIY)

(404) 385-0M1 (Fax)
I'

Individuals with qisabilities Education Act (IDEA) IDEA is an important federal law, because it requires that a free and appropriate
I
public education, which includes special education and related services, be available to children and youth With disabilities in mandated age ranges. It also includes a section
titled Part H; whichl provides for services for infants and toddlers with disabilities. Signed into law on October 8, 1986, the Amendments to the Education of the

13

Handicapped Act (EHA), this legislation is now known as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This legislation has been subsequently updated through amendments. Copies of IDEA are available from your representative in Congress or from the ADA Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center whose address is listed in the section above on the Americans With Disabilities Act.

These three laws, defined above, and their accompanying amendments and regulations contain important provisions to protect the rights ofpeople withdisabilities to education, to work and to live in the community. Litigation to enforce the rights ofpiwple with disabilities is often based on the provisions ofthese three laws.

Work In~entives Improvement Act of 1999

.

An important piece of legislation passed Congr~ss in 1999. The Work Incentives

Improvement Act of 1999 was designed to r~move legislative barriers and provide

legislative incentives for people with disabilities to work. This bill, called The Work

Incentives Improvement Act of 1999 (S.331), is "to amend the Social Security Act to

expand the availability of health care coverage for working individuals with disabilities,

to establish a Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program in the Social Security

Administration to provide such individuals with meaningful opportunities to work, and

for other purposes." S.331 will:

~ Expand State options under Medicaid for workers with disabilities

~ Continue Medicaid coverage for working individuals with disabilities

~ Establish grants to develop and implement state infrastructures to support working

individuals with disabilities

I

.

.

~ Demonstrate coverage of workers with potentially severe disabilities

~ EstablishTicket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program

~ Prohibit the use of work activity as a basis for review of an individual's disabled

status
~ Expedite eligibility determinations for ~pplications of former long-term

beneficiaries that completed an extended period of eligibility

~ Establish state grants for work incentives assistance to disabled beneficiaries

~ Extend disability insurance program demonstration project authority

~ Establish demonstration project providing for reductions in disability insurance

benefits based on earnings.

Department of Human Resources www.dhr.state.ga.us

Through the Georgia Department of Human Resources (DHR), millions of Georgians receive health care, protection, fmancial assistance, treatment and rehabilitation for disabling conditions. DHR has many divisions: Aging Services, Public Health, Mental Health/Developmental Disabilities/Addictive Diseases (MHDDAD) and Family and Children's Services. Also within DHR are the Office of Regulatory Services, Office of Human Resource Management, Office of Fraud and Abuse, Office of Adoptions, Office ofRural Health and the Office of Technology and Support, Information Technology Section. To get on the Department's mailing list for public

14

0
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hearing announcements, call or email Joel Stanley at (404) 656-4742 or

.

wjs@dhr.state.ga.~. The Office ofCommuilications is the information center for DHR.

The office producJs a wide range of community awareness and educational materials

including fact sheclts and public service announcements. For more information about

I
DHR, call (404) 656-4937 or explore their Web site at www.dhr.state.ga.us

I

'.

Division ofMental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Addictive Diseases I

The Divisi6n of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Addictive

Diseases serves pebple with mental illness, developmental disabilities and substance

,

I

abuse problems. The division serves all age groups ~d those with the most severe

problems. These problems are likely to be long-term and those suffering from these long-

terms problems have no other sources ofhelp.

The State of Georgia is divided into seven regions for the administration of

services. Individrn\.ls seeking services and resources for people with mental retardation

and/or developmerital disabilities should contact the local Regional Board Office (see

page 1) to vary from

rfeingdI.oonuttoIUrteegeInotnr.y

point

for

these

services

for

their

region.

Services

offered

may

What services doJ this Division fund?
~ ResidentiallSupports: I o Assistance in the family home to care for and train a family member with I MR{DD

o Assistance in a home in which a Iconsumer may live without staff, but who

I

,

.

needs intermittent assistance in maintaining and developing independence.

o Su~rvision and training in a staffed residence

~ Day SupporIts

o Traihing in the areas of work, personal care and socialization

o Supports to obtain and succeed ih community employment

~ Respl.te Se"lI,.ces

I

o Pro~ided in the family home

o ProVrided in a respite employee's home or respite facility
~ Family Support

o For ihdividuals and families with autism or other developmental

disa~ilities

.

What fund Sources Le available' for these services?

I
~ State tax dollars which are called grant-in-aid allocations

1
~ Federal tax dollars which are allocated through the Social Services Block Grant

~~~ I

.

~ Some counties provide local funds
~ Some non-ptofitassociations may provide charitable contributions

~ Families and consumers are sometimes requested to pay for all or part of some
I services

~ Medicaid Home and Community Based Waivers - a mix of federal and state tax

I dollars

What is a "Medicaid Home and Community-Based Waiver"?

15

Traditionally, Medicaid has restricted non-medical services to people with MR/DD to only those residents of long-term care facilities. Georgia has an agreement with Medicaid to waive that restriction and is allowed to fund non-medical services (such as the services listed abo\;'e) to people with MRlDD who live in our communities.
Georgia has two waiver agreements with Medicaid for people with MRlDD o The Mental Retardation Waiver Program (MRWP - which started in 1989) This includes an option for 'Natural Support Enhancement' or Family or Natural Support o The Community Habilitation and Support Services Waiver Program (CHSSWP) - which started with the closure of Brook Run in 1997)

What services are available for me or my family member?

All ofthe services ljsted above may be funded by any fund source named above. The

MRlDD intake staff ofthe regional board will let applicants know which services are

available when a request for services is' made.

'

Eligibility for Grant-in-Aid funded service or for Social Services Block Grant is met

by anyone diagnosed with some type of mental retardation prior to adulthood.

Over 80% ofthe people with MRlDD in government funded services are funded by either State Grant-in-Aid funds or federal Social Services Block Grant funds.

Eligibility for both ofthe two waivers has three components:

1) must be diagnosed with some type of mental retardation prior to adulthood

2) must be Medicaid eligible (Medicaid eligibility is determined by the county

Department of Family and Children Services. The MRlDD intake staff'can

assist you with this contact or tum to page 65.)

3) must require the same level of care as that provided in an Intermediate Care

Facility for the Mentally Retarded (ICFIMR).

Less than 20% ofthe people with MR/DD in government funded services are funded,

by Medicaid Home and Community Based Waivers.

.

Only a limited number of people may be funded with waiver funds during each year.

Grant-in-Aid and Social Services Block Grant funds may serve any number of

people, but each region must not exceed their budgeted amount for services.

Beginning in December of 1998, a statewide coalition called the Unlock the Waiting

Lists! Campaign began supporting all people with disabilities including the developmentally disable~ to influence members of the Georgia General Assembly to

augment the state's budget to provide more money for home and community-based

services so that people will no longer have to wait years for services for which they

are eligible.

For the latest information on the campaign, call 877-WAITLIST. If you would

like to become involved in advocating for increased funding for home and community

based services, call Heidi Fernandez or Grace Fricks at 877-WAITLIST,

fricks@alltel.net). Correspondence on this issue should be addressed to:

Unlock the Waiting Lists! Campaign C/O GCDD

2 Peachtree Street, NW Suite 8-210

Atlanta, Georgia 30303

Will the services I request be immediately available?

16

o
o
o



The number of people requesting services and the cost of services often

I

.

exceed the fundingIand capacity of government funded services.

The R~gional MHMRSA Boards have lists pfpeople who are not receiving

the services they need. I
When funds become available for services, people on the planning lists who

are dethmined to be the most in need are given the opportunity to choose a

provid~r and arrange for services to begin.

.

I

Department Of Community Health

Georgia'~o~unity (~H) On April 19, 1999l a new agency called the

Health

was

created. Consolidating four agencies involved in purchasing, planning and regulating

health care, GCH fuegan operation on July ,1, 1999. Gary Redding is now the appointed

I

Commissioner of6CH.

'

Among its bany challenges, GCH will ensure that quality health care setvices are

provided to a widel variety of individual state employees, their dependents and retirees;

and the . agency

IaSgreeds,polonwSl-t1iinleco.~lmore: ,

blind,

and

people

with

disabilities ~. .

on

Medicaid.

This .

new

Insuring dearly 2 nnllion individuals - 30% ofGeorgia's population;

Administ~,ring a budget of more than $5 billion;

,

Planning for coverage of uninsured Georgians, currently estimated at 1.3 million

I people;

., '

Administering funds from the tobacco settlement; and

.Coordinatfug all health planning for state agencies.

The most lportant components ofthis new agency for people with disabilities , and their families J.re:
The Divisidn of Medical Assistance, which provides Medicaid and PeachCare for Kids health benefitk and administers the Indigent Care Trust Fund.
Division of!Health Planning, which performs the functions of the former State Health Planning Agency (SHPA) that administers the certificate-of-need program, approves the expansion of health care facilities, plans for new services, purchases major
medical equipmen~ and constructs new facilities. Selected health care providers in
Georgia (including :some providers of services to people with disabilities) must apply for a certificate-of-need to demonstrate that a proposed health care project is necessary to meet community ntkds; and,
I
Office of Wpmen's Health, which is responsible for developing a comprehensive state plan to address women's health issues. .

State govelent is in the process ofreorganizing many health care functions.

Many additional chbges are 8;I1ticipated.

1

Regional Boards

Seven regional boards plan and coordinate mental health, developmental I
disabilities, and addictive disease services across the state. Services are provided by

17

seven state hospitals and one mental retardation institution and through contracts with communitY service boards, boards of health and private providers;
The seven regional boards appointed by county commissioners are required by law to have at least half their membership be consumers or family members. These boards are responsible for identifying needs, planning and coordinating both hospital and community services, contracting with public and private providers for services, monitoring serviceoutcomes and ensuring consumer satisfaction. Individuals who are interested in advocacy and public service may consider preparing to become a candidate for the next vacancy their county has on the regional board.
I
Community Service Boards Community Service Boards (CSBs) are public providers responsible for mental
health, developmental disabilities, and addictive disease services. CSBs are also mandated to draw at leaSt half of their membership from consumers and family members. \ CSBs receive their funding from contracts offered by the Regional Boards. This power over funding gives Regional Boards greater control over the quality and types of services provided by the CSBs and private providers in their geographic area.
Currently there are more than 20 CSB's, however the state has proposed to decrease the number in order to cut costs. Community service boards provide a broad range of services to people in their home communities, including outpatient services; residential services; day programs for treatm~nt of training; crisis intervention and case management. Outpatient services include diagnosis and evaluation, individual, group or family counseling, medication monitoring, and education.
I
Day programs provide people with disabilities a place to learn basic living, social and work skills.
Community residential services provide living arrangements for people with mental illness or mental retardation who cannot ilive at home. They also provide detoxification and treatment programs for people with substance abuse problems.
Specialized services for children and adolescents are available in the state. Georgia has expanded community mental health services for emotionally disturbed children and youth to a range of community serVices that help prevent unnecessary hospitalization. All 28 community service areas now have expanded outpatient services, crisis teams that go into the home, day treatment programs and respite care. Twenty one service areas have a full network of services, including therapeutic foster care and therapeutic group homes.
- Outdoor Therapeutic Programs in Warm Springs and Cleveland serve troubled young people in isolated camplike settings. -Four state hospitals offer short-term evaluation and treatment for emotionally disturbed children and teens. - Two state hospitals in Columbus and Rome offer long-term treatment for severely emotionally disturbed teenagers through the state Multi Agency Team for Children (MATCH) program. - State supported treatment services for youth with substance abuse problems are available in many of the community service areas. These include day treatment,
18

o o o



,
after school and on weekends, family counseling and education, and student
assistance drograms in schools to help identify young people with problems early. Eight residcintial programs serve youngsters with the most severe alcohol and
J
drug-related problems.
I
More and more regional boards are contracting with providers in their regions to provide
. support services fo~ people with severe, chronic mental illness and people in crisis within
their local areas. Since 1987, Georgia has been developing a network of community
serviyes to help pe<{ple with schizophrenia and other serious mental illnesses live in the
community and avdid repeated hospitalizations. To ~te, 16 of28 community mental health programs ha~e been fully funded for the new services; 12 have been partially
funded.

When hospitalization is required, it is provided by state hospitals serving specific

geographic regions bd through contracts with private hospitals. The hospitals have

traditionally treatedlpeople with severe, chronic mental illness and people with alcohol or

drug crises. UsuallY', patients in crisis are hospitalized for a short time until they are

stable and can returh to community treatment programs. DHR closed the Georgia Mental

Health Institute (GNrnI) in Atlanta in June of 1998. In December 1997, Brook Run, an

institution serving Jnly people with mental retardation was closed.

State hospiulls also provide forensic services: court-ordered evaluations ofpeople

charged with a crimb before trial, and inpatient treatment for those who are found
incompetent to stan~ trial or "not guilty by reas~n of insanity."

Here is a listing of state hospitals and their

I

locations.

Hospital/lnstitution
I
Georgia Regional Hospital-Atlanta J
Georgia Regional Hospital-Augusta J
Georgia Regional Hospital-Savannah Gracewood State Sbhool & Hospital (MR)
Southwestern Stat~ Hospital
Northwest Georgia\Regional Hospital
West Central Georgia Regional Hospital
Central State Hospital

Location
Atlanta Augusta Savannah Augusta Thomasville Rome Columbus Milledgeville

How to contact your Regional Board

ld separa~ed Use the following Map Charts to locate your Region and Community Service Board

by

County.

19

o o o

Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Addictive Diseases REGIONAL OFFICES, REGIONAL HOSPITALS AND COMMUNITY SERVICE BOARDS
Revised January 9, 2002

Re ion
NORTH REGION

. . . Counti~s bf,.r;f;'~'j:ri" SelVic~ Area

Charles Fetner Regional Coordinator
(effective 1/1/03) Sarah Grim
Regional Services Administrator (effective 2/10/03)
420 South Erwin Street Suite A
Cartersville, GA 30120 Phone 770-387-5411
FAX 770-387-5417
-
Tom Muller, M.D. Regional Hospital Services
Administrator Northwest Georgia Regional
Hospital 1305 Redmond Circle Rome, Georgia 30161 Phone (706) 295-6246 Fax 706 802-5454

Catoosa Chattooga Dade Walker
Bartow Cherokee Fannin Floyd Gilmer Gordon Haralson* Murray Paulding Pickens Polk Whitfield *Haralson County receives many MHDDAD services from Haralson Behavioral Health Services operated by the Board of Health.

Lookout Mountain Community Services
Highland Rivers Community Service Board

Tom Ford, Ph.D. Klay Weaver

P.O. Box 1027 laFayette, GA 30728-1027 Telephone: (706) 638-5584 FAX: (706) 638-5585
1710 White House Drive, Suite 204 Dalton, Georgia 30720 Telephone: (706) 270-5000 FAX (706) 270-5124 .

Commerce Location:

Banks Dawson

Georgia Mountains Community Services

Boyd McLocklin

P.O. Box 1317 Gainesville, GA 30503-1317

236 Industrial Park Drive

Forsyth

Telephone: (770) 535-5403

Commerce, GA 30529

Franklin

- - - - I - - - P h o n e - 7 0 6 - 3 3 6 - 6 8 2 2 - - -I- H a b

ersha

m--

-

-

-

- - - -I-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

1

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

_oL800:525:8151
1 800-347-5827 (Emergency

and

Night

1

FAX 706-335-5240

Hall

Number)

Hart Lumpkin Rabun Stephens Towns Union White

FAX 770-535-5859







o
Re ion
NORTH REGION
Continued
Marietta Location:
2137-Kingston Court, S.E. Suite 108
Marietta, GA 30067 Phone 770-916-2100 FAX 770-916-2102

.. CoiJnties in .Servic.~ Arf!a
Cobb
Douglas

o

Cobb County Community Services

Board

.

Ted atron

Douglas County Community services Ted Otron Board

o
361 N. Marietta Parkway Marietta, GA 30060-1400 Telephone: (770) 429-5000 FAX 770-528-9824 361 N. Marietta Parkway Marietta, GA 30060-1400 Telephone: (770) 429-5000 FAX 770-528-9824

Re ion
ME-TRO REGION

Counties in ;
Servic;:e Area

Eamestine Pittman

Fulton

Regional Coordinator

(effective 1/16/03)

Paul vander Straeten

Regional Services Administrator -

(effective 1/16/03)

Citizens Trust Building

75 Piedmont Ave, 11th Floor

Atlanta, GA 30303

Phone 404-463-6367

FAX 404-463-6369

Ron Hogan Regional Hospital Services
- Administrator Georgia Regional Hospital at
Atlanta 3073 Panthersville Road Decatur, Georgia 30037 Phone (404) 243-2110
Fax (404) 212-4621

Clayton Location:
211 Prime Point, Bldg 1, Ste. A Peachtree Oty, GA 30269-3334
Phone 770-254-7474 FAX (770) 254-7479

Oayton
\

'r~f;~(t'f";~1;::;H):~i;"::;:0::~\!i~;('::~~:' ,j'!;;;!,~ij\iP"~'Address and -Qh~ector'>'; ",:(l : Tele hOI1~:Nuinber ..

Fulton County Community Service Board

Steven R. Katkowsky, M.D.

1249 Bankhead Avenue, N.W. Suite 138 Atlanta, Georgia 30318

~Qlli::

(404) 870-3635

- FAX 404-870-3626

Oayton Community MH, AD Developmental Services Board

Jimmy Wiggins

112 Broad Street Jonesboro, GA 30236-1919 Telephone: (770) 478-2280 FAX: (770) 477-9772







o

Re ion
METRO REGION
Continued
DeKalb Location:
4329 Memorial Drive Suite K
Decatur, GA 30032 Phone 404-298-4990 FAX 404-298-4994

DeKalb

Snellville Location:
2311C Henry Clower Blvd. Snellville, GA 30078-3107
Phone 770-972-6305 1-800-371-5011
FAX 770-972-0324

Gwinnett Newton Rockdale

o

DeKaib Community service Board

R. Derril Gay, Ph.D.

GRN Community. Service Board

Bobby Robbins

o
and :,(~'~,;;'\':';;i'Address;- -::'"":,:,:,:,,.":, I
';T~leI10ne:N"'mber _
445 WinnWay Room 464 Decatur, GA 30030-1707 or P. O. Box 1648 Decatur, GA 30032
Telephone (404) 294-3836 (Switchboard) 294-3834 FAX 404-508-7795
P.O. Box 687 Lawrenceville, GA 30046-0687
Telephone: (770) 339-5019
FAX 770-339-5382

!!

Region
WEST CENTRAL REGION
Gregory C Hoyt Regional Coordinator
(effective 1/1/03) Michael Swingle Regional Services Administrator (effective 2/1/03) 3800 Schatulga Road Columbus, GA 31907-3118 Phone 706-568-5281 FAX 706-569-3140

~ Counties in ..

Address .and .'" "_,i,/' ..,.,. :'.:;"'i';:::"i'"rt:::T~'iT;:;;~j;l\1;t:j;~~2:~:!'~f,:;i;:'~i:!;#iW':i:~L';":j:\~~ji::i;':\'i~T)~:,j!::~~';'",;;",i "::*:;:'!:!~':"'~":'< ", ;.-

"i'

Service Area -

C58 Name>: "..

'csa Director

TeleDhone Number

Chattahoochee Clay . Harris Muscogee Quitman. Randolph Stewart Talbot

New Horizons Community Services Board

Peny Alexander

P.O. Box 5328 Columbus, GA 31906-0328
Telephone: (706) 596-5583 FAX 706-596-5589

James Jackson Regional Hospital SerVices
Administrator West Centr~1 Georgia Regional
Hospital. 3000 Schatulga Road
Columbus, Georgia 31907 Phone (706) 568-5203
Fax (706) 568-2257

1-----.-------------- ------------- -------------1-------------------

Crisp Dooly Macon Marion Schley

Middle Flint Behavioral HealthCare

Pam Davis

P.O. Drawer 1348 Americus, GA 31709-1348
Telephone: (229) 931-2470 FAX 229-931-2474

Sumter

Taylor

Webster

Peachtree City Location:

Carroll

Pathways Center for Behavioral and Joan Turner

120 Gordon Commerdal Drive, Suite

Coweta

Developmental Growth

A LaGrange, GA 30240-5740

211 Prime Point, Bldg 1, Ste. A Peachtree City, GA 30269-3334
Phone 770-254-7474

Heard Meriwether Troup

Telephone: (706) 845-4045' FAX (706) 845-4341

----I----FAX-(nO)-254=-7479---!I------------I-------------1------------1------------1-

Bulls Fayelle Henry Lamar Pike Spaulding Upson

Mcintosh Trail Community Service Board

Cathy Johnson

1501-A Kalamazoo Drive Griffin, GA 30224 Telephone: (770) 358-5252 FAX (770) 229-3223







o

CENTRAL REGION
Ralph McCuin Regional Coordinator
(effective 2/16/03) Arthur Carder
Regional Services Administrator (effective 2/16/03) 103 B Mercer Drive Dublin, GA 31021
Phone 478-274-7912 FAX 478-274-7915
_ Marvin Bailey Regional Hospital Services
Administrator . Central State Hospital
Powell Building Milledgeville, Georgia 31062
Phone (478) 445-4128 Fax (478) 445-6034

Bleckley Dodge Johnson Laurens Montgomery Pulaski Telfair Treutlen Wheeler Wilcox
Bibb Jones Monroe Twiggs
Crawford Houston Peach

Baldwin Hancock Jasper Putnam Washington Wilkinson

o

o

Community Service Board of Middle Georgia

Patsy Thomas, Ed.D.

River Edge Behavioral Health Center Frank Fields

Phoenix Center Behavioral Health Services

Don Blair

Oconee Community Service Board

John Prather

2121 A Bellevue Road Dublin, GA 31021-2998 Telephone: (478) 272-1190 FAX 478-275-6509
175 Emery Highway Macon, GA 31217-3692
Telephone: (478) 751-4515 FAX 478-752-1040
P.O. Box 2866 Warner Robins, GA 31099-2866 Telephone: (478) 322-4058 Director=s Phone: (478) 322-4059 FAX 478-322-4085 P.O. Box 1827 Milledgeville, GA 31059-1827
Telephone: (478) 445-4817 FAX 478-445-4963

Re ion
EAST CENTRAL REGION
Vacant Regional Coordinator M. Andrew McCollum Regional Services Administrator
(effective 1/1/03) . 1056 Claussen Road
Suite 212 Augusta. GA 30907 Phone 706-667-4833 Toll free 1-866-380-4835 FAX 706-667-4840
Ben Walker Regional Hospital Services
Administrator Georgia Regional Hospital at
Augusta 3405 Old Savannah Road Augusta, Georgia 30906
Phone (706) 792-7019 Fax (706) 792-7041

," 'Counties in'~:''':''; -Service Area "

Columbia Lincoln McDuffie Richmond Taliaferro Warren Wilkes
Burke -Emanuel Glascock Jefferson Jenkins Screven

Community Service Board of East Central Georgia

Mike Brockman

Ogeechee Behavioral Health Services J. Frank Brantley

____I

Gail Jackson, Interim Regional Hospital Services
Administrator Gracewood State School and
Hospital 100 Myrtle Boulevard Gracewood, Georgia 30812
1 -'-P"'hoo::nc:"...e(706)~7~9~0-~20~3~0'-- _ _
Fax 706 790-2025

Commerce Location~
. 236 Industrial Park Drive Commerce, GA 30529 Phone 706-336-6822 FAX 706-335-5240

Barrow Clarke Elbert Greene Jackson Madison Morgan Oconee Oglethorpe Walton,

1
Advantage Behavioral Health Systems

1

---'-

Terry Tellefson





3421 Mike Padgett Highway Augusta. GA 30906-3815 Telephone: (706) 432-7800 (Secretary-Yvonne) - FAX 706-432-3791
P.O. Box 1259 Swainsboro. GA 30401-1259 Telephone: (478) 289-2522 FAX 478-289-2544

1_.-:-

_

250 North Avenue , Athens. GA 30601-2244

Telephone: (706) 542-9739 FAX 706-542-9681



o

o

Re ion
SOUTHWEST REGION

David Sofferin

Regi9nal Coordinator

(effective 1/16/03)

Ken Brandon

Regional Services Administrator

(effective 1/1/03)

200 West Oglethorpe Boulevard

41h Floor, Suite 402

-

Albany. GA 31701

Phone 229-430-3017

FAX 229-430-4098

Beverly Bajerski, Interim Regional Hospital Services
Administrator
(effective 1/16/03) Southwestern State Hospital
400 Pinetree Boulevard Thomasville, Georgia 31799
Phone (229) 227-3020 Fax (229) 227-2883

Waycross Location: 1123 Church Street Waycross. GA 31501 Phone 912-338-5968
1-800-810-6028 FAX 912-338-5970

. ;,' Counties in
Service Area

Baker Calhoun Dougherty Early Lee. Miller Terreil Worth

Albany Area Community Service Board

--,--------,------1---

Colquitt Decatur Grady Mitchell Seminole Thomas

The Georgia Pines Community MHDDAD Services

John Burns, Ed.D. Robert Jones

Ben Hill Berrien Brooks Cook Echols Irwin Lanier Lowndes Tift Turner

Behavioral Health Services of South Georgia

David McCracken

o
":i~'~t;::M:~;~,;.Addte~;and ;\::,i:f::~!'i;i:I;~:::
Tele hQneNlimber':
P.O. Box 1988 Albany, GA 31702-1988 Telephone: (229) 430-4042 FAX 229-430-4047
~----------_.,_._---_.
.1102 Smith Avenue, Suite K Thomasville, GA 31792-1659 Telephone: (229) 225-4370 FAX 229-225-4374
3120 N. Oak Street Extension Suite C Valdosta, GA 31602-1007 Telephone: (229) 333-7095 FAX 229-333-7093

..
II

-.-

Region
SOUTHEAST REGION
Rosa Kamson Regional Coordinator
(effective 2/16/03) Catherine E. McRae Regional Services Administrator
(effective 1/16/03) Bank of America Plaza 777 Gloucester Street
Suite 101 Brunswick; GA 31520 Phone 912-280-6893
FAX 912-280-6896
FrC\nk Drummond, M.D., Interim Regional Hospital Services Administrator
Georgia Regional Hospital at Savannah
1915 Eisenhower Drive Savannah, Georgia 31406
Phone (912) 356-2045 Fax (912) 351-3550

Counties in Service Area
Appling Bulloch Candler Evans Jeff Davis Taltnall Toombs Wayne
Bryan Camden Chatham -Effingham Glynn Liberty Long Mcintosh

Pineland Area MH, DD and AD Community Service Board

June DIPollto

Gateway Community Service Board Susan Broome

P.O. Box 745 Statesboro, GA 30459-0745 Telephone: (912) 764-6906 FAX 912-489-3058
1000 Commissioners Drive Darien, GA 31305 Telephone: (912) 267-0760 FAX 912-437-9483

Waycross Location:
1123 Church Street Waycross, GA 31501 Phone 912-338-5968
1-800-810-6028

At~inson
Bacon Brantley Charlton Clinch -

Satilla Community Services

Dennis Wool, Ph.D.

P.O. Box 1397 Waycross, GA 31502-1397
Telephone: (912) 284-2543 FAX 912-287-6660

- - - - I - - - - - -F-A:X:9.12.-.33.8:-5-97-0 ' - ' - - " -C-of-fee- I - P i e r c e - - - - - - - - ' - - - - I - - - - ' - - - - - - - - - - - - I - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1 - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1 1 -

Ware







o o o

Developmental Disabilities Network

The Institute on Human Development and

I Disability (IHDD)

.

A University Affiliated Program Newly renamed and ~nsconced in a new posi-

tion in the University oflGeorgia community, the

Institute had its start as Ithe University Aff1liated

Program in 1965 when i~ was established as part

of a federal initiative to improve the quality of life

for people with disabilltibs and their families. The mission of the UIDD h~ evolved in the past few

years into working with :others to further the

understanding of the abilities of all peopl~ through

education, research and public service. A unit of

the College of Family an~ Consumer SCiences since

1989, IHDD is a member; of the American Association of University AffiliafIed Programs, including

some 60 universities anq teaching hospitals

around the nation. Activities at the IHDD are based on the prindples o1f full community inclu-
sion, respect for the uniQue characteristics of an

individuals and families,\ the provision of conipe-

tency- and value-based educational experiences,

and promotion of the prc:Msions of the Americans

with Disabilities Act (AdA) and IDEA. The Insti-

tute works in close partnbrship with the

Governor's Coundl on DJvelopmental Disabilities .

of Georgia, the Georgia 1{.dvocacy Office and the

Institute's consumer advisory council. The UIDD at .

the University of GeorgiaJ has assumed a leader-

ship role in the promotio* of independence,

produetiyity and integra~on, and inclusion into

the community of individuals with developmental

disabilities in Georgia by sponsoring:

the interdisciplinary preservice preparation of

students and fellows, including the preparation of

leadership personnel. I

.

community service activities that include community training and ~ical assistance for

people with disabilities, their families, professionals, paraprofessionals, ~dents, volunteers and

advocates. Activities inclrlde state-of-the-art direct

. services such as family stipport, individual sup-

ports. personal assistance services, education. vocational, clinical, health and prevention.
dissemination of information and research fmdings, which may include empirical validation of program activities and preservice preparation as well as contributions to the development of new knowledge in the field of developmental disabilities.
. SOme ongoing projects include: GeoTgia PAS Corps/Amerlcorps which provides
personal assistance services to individuals with disabilities. .
Leadership Insdtute on Quaii(}' Person-Centered
Development which provides_training and mentored experience in the tools of personcentered development.
Regional Renewal Through CoOaboration if
.Providers and Advocates which provides traIning for direct-care service providers, their supervisors, people with disabilities, their families and advocates in Northeast Georgia's Mental Health/Mental Retardation/Substance Abuse Region 3.
Inclusion Through Aetil1ifY-Based Intervention provides training for university students from an interdisciplinary focus, and consultation, training and suppOrt to early childhood professionals.
MuIticu/tura/ Resource Network provides
cultural resources for coordinators in the state Babies can't Wait network to help them better serve a multicultural population
'lTansition to Postsecondary Education disseminates a transitional video that encourages students with disabilities to use the empowerments of ADA laws as they move toward Postsecondary education.
Person-centered PlIlnnin,gJor SChool-Aged Children is a focus which seeks to extend the person-centeredprocess to scbool-age children, fostering school arid neighborhood inclusion.
FoOow-Up ifFormer River's Crossing Residents
funded research on the lives of former River's . Crossing ICFMR individuals who are now living in

22


.-


the community and produced a collection of stories of former residents ~f River's Crossing called

Building New lives in the Community and River's

Crossing: Transition.lrom Institution to the Com-

munity. both documdnts are available from STARS
I at (706) 542-3457.

Waddie Welcome, it Man Who Could Not Be Denied is the title of ~ videotape conceived and

funded by the Instit4te's Training Initiative Project

on Aging. This videotape was created to show

. tangible results of pet-son-centered planning and

community inclusion Ifor persons with severe

disabilities and has \\jon regional and national

awards. Information about purchasing a copy of

this videotape can be lobtained by calling the

STARS telephone number listed above. .Telehealth PrQject i~ a project With the

CareVision statewide {,jdeo conferencing network

.

I

that links professionals, Babies can't Wait service

coordinators, and traihers at the IHDD for early I
intervention consultative services in the homes of

children and families, land the workplaces of

professionals.

PrQiect SCEls provides preservice and inservice training of early inte~entionists who work in

natural settings (the Home, day care center, etc.)
I with children with dis~bi1ities from birth to three
years of age.

Abuse Awarenes-s, If!evention and Intervention

PrQiect provides interdisciplinary training for

parents, Child protectiye Services caseworkers and

investigators, law enforcement, teachers and school personnel, and .~arly interventionists

Children Q/Choice 'CfJlIaborative works to

increase the number of adoptions and permanent

placements of children lwith disabilities.

Interdisdplinary Doctoral Leadership Program provides a preservice l~dership program to train

doctoral students from !the departments of Child

and Family Development and Special Education at The University of Geor~a

National Head Start.{Publlc SChoo/1'ransltion .

Evaluation conducts research to determine
can whether early benefits ~ttained by Head Start
children be maintai1ned as they transition into

the public school systertt.

Longitudinal Head Sfart llIfects in FamilY With

and Without Multiple Children Attending Head
I Start Programs conductIs research to better under-
stand cumulative

I . effects on children and families of participants
in Head Start.

Better All Together Hand in Hand is a project

which is a collaborative effort to train early child care providers and resource and referral personnel in 42 counties.
Maternal Communication Factors Related to Child Competence investigates the relationship between maternal communication and the social and cognitive competence of Head Start graduates.
Supporting Children with Challenging Behaviors helps participants identify possible reasons for challenging behavior in the classroom.
Teaching Young Children About Disabilitiesconducts research to determine attitudes of children in day care toward peers with disabilities.
Grassroots AdvocaQ' supports the advocacy of people with disabilities, their families, and concerned others; includes the Northeast Georgia Coalition of Disability Advocates (CODA) and People First.
Multicultural Coalition on Disability and Dlversi(Y collaborates with agencies whose constituents are at high risk of disability because of socioeconomic status, age, gender, health status, living conditions, or life experience.
Americans With Disabilities- Act Training provides ADA technical assistance and training in Northeast Georgia.
Systems, 1'raining and Resource ServicesrSJ'ARS) is a mini-dearinghouse for audio-visual and print materials for people with disabilities, families, professionals, service providers, educators and students.
Southwes-t Georgia Youth Leadership PrQiect increased leadership for people with disabilities and supporters by developing community leadership organizations in Southwest Georgia.
Structural and Attitudinal Change project assists coordination of a service delivery project among unserved and unrepresented groups.

How to Contact the IHDD foe More Information

IHDD/UGA

850 College Station Road

Athens, GA 30602-4806

_

(706) 542-3457; (706) 542-6629 TIY

FAX: (706) 542-4815

STARS: (706) 542-3457

E-mail info@uap.uga.edu

Web: http://www.uap.uga.edu

23

The Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities for Georgia (DD COuncil)
Georgia's DD council is the state planning council created by a federal mandate through the Development Disabilities Act. The DD Council is a separate state agency administered by DHR. The Council is charged with creating systems change for people with developmental disabilities and their families to: increase independence, inclusion, integration, and productivity for people with disabilities through such activities as public policy research, analysis, and reform, project demonstrations, and education and training. The DD Council promotes activities and creates opportunities which enable people with developmental disabilities to exercise their right to live, learn, work, and play in the place and manner of their choice and to . attain the highest level of independent living they can attain. The Council endorses programs that make communities more accessible, homes more affordable. employment more realizable, technology 'more available. and that give families more peace of mind about their loved ones with disabilities.
The Council prOVides a forum and resources to promote its vision, values. goals, and mission. It influences the direction of public policy at both the state and the federal levels, to foster changes in service provision, to reflect the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities, and to promote public awareness of those needs.
The Council does not provide direct services to individuals with developmental disabilities. Instead, the Council often acts as a convener for agencies, together with consumers, parents, and advocates to develop coordinated public policies. ,The Council often uses its resources to commission research on policy issues and fund model programs. The Council also funds projects to inform decision makers. legislators, and the general public about developmental disabilities. The Council works with the IHDD and the Georgia Advocacy Office. (termed sister-agencies) to coordinate their efforts and eliminate duplication of effort among the three agenCies.
Some of Council's collaborative projects include:
Passagero/HB Ii3I/Reauthorization 0/HB
IOO'-Mental Health/Mental Retardation/Substance Abuse Service Delivery System. During the 1999 Legislative Session, the Council supported advocates who were successful in convincing t~eir legislators to vote to remove the sunset clause

which would have terminated the reform of the

public mental health. mental retardation and

substance abuse system on June 30, 1999. The new law also allows consumers and their families to have more responsive, accessible services;

o

public managers to move funds where services are

most needed; .private providers to be included in

the public service network; and, citizens to have

better services for their tax dollars.

PeachCareJor Kids. The Council, along with

several statewide advocacy organizations. faI11ily

members and self advocates worked with th~ .

General Assembly to guarantee that children with

developmental disabilities would receive appropri-

ate coverage under legislation supported by the

governor to insure a large segment of Georgia's

uninsured children, those under 200% of the

federal poverty level. This initiative allowed an

additional 228.000 children in the state to receive

health care. For more information about Peachcare

see page 123.

Unlock the Waiting Lists! In March of 1998,

advocates began a statewide campaign to ensure

that the 13.000 Georgians with disabilities and

those who are frail and older. who are eligible

under Medicaid. would receive home and commu-

nity based services. These advocates enlisted the support of the Council and other agencies and

o

community groups to form a strong partnership to

look towards obtaining funding in the 1999

legislative session and beyond. The Council

supported the campaign both fiscally and with

personnel devoted to creating public awareness of

the waiting lists issues. Statewide media efforts

will continue on this campaign. For more informa-

tion contact Sarita Reddy at (706) 542-6085 or E-

mail sareddy@arches.uga.edu.

Prqject WINS! This 3-year initiative to promote

inclusion in schools across the state began in July

of 1998. The project offers a variety of assistance

to schools based ,on a growing understanding of

what works to help schools improve their capacity

to include children with disabilities. Schools from

varied locations as well as different levels of

indusion are represented in the,network. The

project provides technical assistance through a

network of consultants who provide direct local

support to schools and to teachers and others in

classrooms. Sharing information about best

o practices for including children with disabilities in
schools through conferences, ,workshops and newsletters is an important part of the project. For

more information contact Eric Jacobson at (404)

657-2126.

24



Basic Access-in New fome Construction. HB

1277 was introduced during the 1998General

Assembly to promote viJitable housing throughout

the state by requiring thkt newly constructed

homes contain basic accbssibility features: wider

clearances for bathroom ldoors and reinforced

bathroom walls for grab bars. Advocates worked

hard to educate the mem1bers of the Georgia I
General Assembly as well as the Governor and Lt.
Governor. This measure ~as opposed by the Home

Builders Association of Georgia and attempts to

create a compromise accJptable to the home builders and advocates faII.led. The measure wa's

voted down in a House Chmmittee. A Task Force

to Study Handicapped Adcessibility in One and
1\vo Family Dwellin~s w~s formed by the Depart-

ment of Community Affairs after a letter of consid-

eration was submitted to !them by a disability

advocate. Despite efforts to reach consensus or

compromise. the final recpmmendation of the task

force was that the Home Builder's Association

improve its voluntary corltpliance program encour-

aging builders to include ~ccessible feiiture in

homes.

I.

Home if Your Own Alliance (HOYO) projects

are operating in seven cofumunities in Georgia

,

I

where expertise teams help people with disabilities

work with low income hoLsing organizations to

obtain mortgage funding to buy homes of their
own. For more informatio~ contact Marcey Dolgoff at (404) 657-2130 or E-~ail at

mldolgoff@dhr.state.ga.us, Community lrustsJor Ffeople with Disabilities

were established by the Georgia General Assembly

by legislation. This bill allbws nonprofit organiza-
tions to create and manag~ community trusts for

people with disabilities. Tfu\ese trusts allow families

to set aside money to help individuals purchase

services without having aR impact upon Medicaid
or 551 funds after family ~ember die. Family

members who establish thb trust can put aside

money to be used to purcHase services, provide

medical or dental care, edJcation. training, or

recreational opportunities.!For more information

contact Marcey Dolgoff at (404) 657-2130 or E-

mail at mldolgoff@dhr.state.ga.us
The Adl1ocao/ Alliance ~rqject began in 1996

with the aim of creating a hetwork for advocacy

efforts in communities statbwide. This network of

grass-roots advocacy groubs has been working to

implement change from the local level and up.

Advocacy has been signifidantly strengthened I
through the collaborative efforts of the members

of this Alliance, Outcomes include a promise by

the Atlanta Housing Authority to make 20% of

their remodeled units and 100% of their ground

floor apartments fully accessible. For more infor-

mation contact Jerry Stedman at (404) 657-7409.

"Partners in Polio/making train a new class of

35 participants every year. People with disabilities

and their family members participate in intensive

advocacy-building experiences to increase their

capacity to become effective advocates. Outcomes

from this project include presentations on disabil-

ity-related issues by partners in .their home

communities and increased participation in legisla-

tive advocacy on the state and national levels. For

more information contact Jerry Stedman at (404)

657-7409.

., ,

The Partnership Funds provides Council spon-'

sored funding to organizations to sponsor con-

sumers and their family members to attend

training opportunities' around the 'state: For more

information contact Marcey Dolgoff at (404) '657-

2130.'

'

Better All Together Corifefences have 'been held ;

,annually for the past four years. These annual , .

events provide information to teachers, parents

and administrators about best practices for includ-

ing children with disabilities in typical classrooms:

Teachers, parents and administrators have taken

the ideas gathered at these conferences back to

their local schools and used the things' they have

learned to help devel6p more inclusive educational

practices in school districts all over the state. For'

more'information contact Eric Jacobson at (4<?4)

657-2120.

Diversity and its relationship to disability is a

topic in which the Council 'has invested over time,

sponsoring diversity-related conferences and '

providing training for service providers on cultural

competency.

Leadership 1Taining in Person-Centered Devel-

opment is a project which is in its final phase. "

This project focuse~ on creating' a corps of leaders'

who were competent to support person-centered

development activities around the state. teaders

are now available in most regions of the state who

are knowledgeable in this area and are connected

to a network of well-trained facilitators who can

assist persons with disabilities in working on

person-centered plans and who can assist agen-

cies in facilitating systems change to switch from

program-based, menu-driven services to providing

more person-centered services. For more informa-

tion contact Sherry Lee at (706) 542-6089.

Temporary Assistance to Needy Families

(TANF) Forums were held in locations around the

25

state to gather the input of providers and consumers of TANF services. No~ in its evaluation phase, this project will produce stories of TANF recipients as well as those who have been successfully launched into community employment with the support of TANF services as well as data about TANF. For more information contact Bill Holley at (706) 542-3964.
The Council maintains a library of resources that are available at no charge. For a listing of available publications, check out Council Web Site at http://www.ga-ddcouncil.orgl otherpubs.htm#pubI5. Submit requests for publications via e-mail to mldolgof@dhr.state.ga.us or fax publication requests to (404) 657-2132.
How to Conract the Govemor's COuncil on Developmental Disabilities for More Information: Z Peachtree Street NW, SUite 3-210 Atlanta, Georgia 30303-3142
(404) 657-2126 (404) 657-2132 Fax Web Site: http://www.ga-ddcouncil.orgl
The Georgia Advocacy Office (GAO) The Georgia Advocacy Office is a private non-
profit corporation having the mission of protection and advocacy for individuals with developmental and other disabilities and persons with mental . illness throughout the state. GAO is mandated by Congress. and has been designated by Georgia's governors as the agency in the state to implement Protection and Advocacy legislation.
GAO consists of four separate programs:
The Protection and Advocacy for Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PADD) program. Advocacy is provided to citizens with developmental disabilities throughout Georgia. The Protection and Advocacy for Persons with Mental Illness (PAMI) program; The Protection and Advocacy for Individual Rights (PAIR) program; and The Protection and Advocacy for Assistive Technology (PAAT) programs.
GAO uses a combination of methods to secure advocacy for Georgian's with disabilities including staff advocacy, legal advocacy, citizen advocacy,

systems advocacy, information and referral, and community education and training. GAO has the
0 capacity to pursue administrative, legal, and other
remedies where the rights of persons with disabilities have been violated. A grievance procedure is available to all clients, former clients, and potential clients of the Georgia Advocacy Office upon request. How to Contact the Georgia Advocacy Office for More Information 100 Crescent Centre Parkway, Suite 520 Tucker, Georgia' 30084 (404) 885-1234 (VoicelITY) (800) 537-2329 outside metropolitan area (770) 414-2948 Fax e-mail: olwyn@earthlink.net
o
o

26

Georgia 1;emporary Assistance for
Needy Faamies (TANF) .



In January 1997, Temporary Assistance for Needy

Families (TANF) replaced lAid to Families with

Dependent Children (AFDC) as the monthly cash
assistance program for po~r families with children

under age 18. Income and resource limits remain

the same.

I.

However, there is a four-year lifetime limit on

cash assistance. Work is aj major component of

TANF; adult recipients with a child over age 1 will

be required to participate iln a work activity. The

program goal is to providel necessary assistance to

needy families with children on a temporary basis

and provide parents with jbb preparation, work

opportunities, enforcement of child support, and

support services to enable ithem to become self-

sufficient, and leave the p~ogram as soon as

possible. There will be no entitlement to any

assistance under Georgia'sl TANF program.

Georgia is moving people off the welfare rolls

and into jobs through its nbw welfare-to-work

.

I

program called Workfirst! Under Workfirst!,

finding a job is the numbe~ one objective for every

person who goes to the DFCS office to apply for

public assistance. EligibilitY workers help appli-

cants remove barriers to employment, such as lack
of child care, job training, ~ealth care or child

support payments. County bffices provide job-

specific training to fill openl positions, and waiting

rooms have job search information.

Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS)

is enlisting the help of busihesses to hire and train

welfare recipients in return \for subsidized training

and tax credits. With subsidized employment,
businesses which hire welf~re recipients in new

positions can receive the retipient's monthly check
for nine months to help pa~ for training and

wages. Employers can also receive tax credits for

providing child care and training welfare recipi-

ents.

I

The Workfirst! program incorporated the job

training and education pordons of PEACH into
Workfirst! However, change~ in the federal law do

not count college and secondary education as

work activities. Child care and transpo~tationwill still be available for those required to participate in workfirst!, and DFCS will continue to provide G.E.D. preparation, vocational training, on-the~job training and work experience for those who need it.
All adult recipients of TANF with a child over the age of 1 will be mandated to participate in work activities. Once DFCS determines that a parent is ready to work or has been receiving cash assistance for two years, the parent will be required to participate in a work activity.

TANf, Workfirst! and people with disabilities.

A strong economy and a focus on employment

have helped decrease Georgia's welfare rolls over

the past three years. However, as federal require-

ments mandate higher levels of work participation

and more skilled recipients leave the TANF rolls to

work, the Department of Family and Children

Services faces the challenge of helping long-term,

hard-to-place recipients become self-sufficient.

Among these recipients are people who have

mental and physical disabilities. Many people with

disabilities fac~ significant barriers in returning to

work such as long-term dependence, lack of work

history, few or no job skills, little or no education.

Some parents and other family members may be

the only caregiver available for a child or other

family members with a significant disability. Even

though caregiving can be counted as work, sup-

port from TANF funds still ends in 48 months.

Some people with disabilities who have a docu-

mented medical condition may not qualify for an

exemption to the 48 month time limit.

It is becoming apparent that many people with

disabilities are not on Division of Family and

Children Services caseloads, and many do not

qualify for services from the Division of Rehabil'-

tation Services or receive Supplemental Security

Income. Statistics show that 20-30% of former

AFDC recipients have either a physical or mental

disability or were caring for a child with a disabil-

ity.

'

27

The challenge will be for the' Department of Human Resources and the Division of Family and Children Services to develop regulations which will address the support needs of people affected' by disabilities who do not fit into the traditional workforce, many of whom want to go to work having spent years acquiring skills and pa'1icipating in job training only to find that barriers to employment continue to prevent them from finding and sustaining gainful employment.
Georgia is eligible to receive $28 million in funds for a welfare-to-work initiative to move long-term public assistance recipients into jobs. Hopefully, a substantial amount of funding will be allocated to addressing the employment needs of people with disabilities.
For more information about Workfirst! contact your local Department of Family and Children Services. Contact information for these county offices is on page 65 of this guide.

o
o

o
28




I



Medicaid



.I

'.

INDEX
Medicaid in Geo~gia



OVerview .................................................................................,....35

What is MJdica.id?

35

I



How is Medicaid different from Medicare?........................................35

~li~il>ilit)f

Who is eligible for Medicaid?

36

What categories of people are eligil>le for Medicaid?

36

Do income knd property affect eligibnit)' for Medicaid?

37

Chart: Mortthl)f Income and Resource Limits

38

How much !income can a person have and still get Medicaid?

37

What counis as income for Medicaid?

.40

What counts as property for Medicaid?

.40

Whose incdIme and resources does Medicaid look at? .

.41

If someone ihas Medicaid now or received Medicaid in the past,

do speci~l income rules allow'them to qualify for Medicaid

even if their income is over the usual Medicaid income limits?.....41

When will Medicaid pa)f for nursing home care,

commuAI.It)' care or hosp'lce7

..42

What speci~l Medicaid program helps children

.W.ithseiv~d re 'lsab'1l"lties remam. I.n the commum'ty?. ..

.. 43

What special Medicaid programs exist for Medicare beneficiaries? 43

Chart: pro~ams for Low Income Medicare Beneficiaries

44

Is there a sttte medical insurance program for children

with incd1me over the Medicaid limits? (PeachCare for Kids) .........44

When can people with income over the guidelines qualify

for Meditaid and get Medically Needy Spend Down?

.45

Chart: Mon~hly Income And Resource Limits

45

Are there other eligibility requirements for receiving

Medicaid Ibenefits?

47

May families who are disqualified from receiving TANF

welfare pkyments receive Medicaid benefits? :

.48

31

o

What are Right from the Start Medicaid and

Low Income Medicaid?

48

Will Medicaid pay for medical bills incurred prior to the

date of application for Medicaid?

.48

Where does someone apply for Medicaid?

.48

What can someone do if he or she is denied Medicaid?

.48

Services

How does Medicaid coverage work?

.'

.49

What services does Medicaid cover? ...............................................49

What screening, diagnosis, and preventative services does

Medicaid provide for children?

~ .49

What limits does Georgia place on services for children?

50

What limits ,does Georgia place on Medicaid services for adults? 50

. What kinds of medical equipment and devices does

Medica.id cover?

~

51

o

What kind of mental health, mental retardation. and alcohol

, and drug treatment services does Medicaid cover? ; ~ 51

What community care services does Georgia offer to help .

people with disabilities and elderly individuals stay out of

nursing homes.and other institutions and remain in

the community?-

~



.52

Does Medicaid pay for organ transplants?

53

What family planning services does Medicaid cover?

53

What does the patient pay for Medicaid services?

53

What do Medicaid nursing home patients have to pay

towards the cost of their care?

53

What do people receiving Medicaid home and community

based services have to pay for their care?

: 54

Will Medicaid pay for transportation to and from medical care? 54

Does Medicaid require prior approval before medical

services are provided?

55

May Medicaid refuse to approve medical care a treating

physician says is medically necessary? Maya Medicaid recipient choose his or her own doctor?

55 55

0

.How does someone find a doctor or dentist who

accepts Medicaid?

.'.56

32



What is Georgia Better Health care?

56

What phatmacy may a Medicaid recipient use?

56

Maya dodtor or hospital bill a recipient for a service that M~dicaid refuses to pay? ...~................................................ 56

How long Idoes the provider have to bill Medicaid?

S7

.' Will Medidaid pay for services provided in another state?

57

What happens if someone has private insurance or Medicare

I.n a ddIltlon to Medlcald7

.57

Wh.at shOlhI d" someone do if Me(licaid refu.s, es to pay for care? .~ ..: 57

A Quick and Easy.Method of Screening for Medicaid

.~li~l>il~tI Jr

(Jnd~r

'
the

.J>ickle

..

.

Amendment

57

Medica.iq Resources

65



Waiver Programs

Katie Beckett Waiver CommuhitJr care Services J>rogram (CCSP) ~
I
Mental Retardation Waiver J>rogram (MRWJ

41, 43 52 52

Indepeddent care WaiverJ>rogram (IewI') .............................52

Model WI aiver

53

I


33

Medicaid*
e

e.
e

OVERVIEW

performed at county offices of the Department of

Family and Children services (DFACS), a unit of

DHR.

What is Medicaid? Medicaid pays for medical care for low-income

The federal Medicaid statute is found at 42 U.S.A. 1396 to 1396v. The federal regulations

people who are age 65 artd older, blind or have other disabilities, childrep, pregnant women, and

~ are at 42 C.F.R. 430 to 498. The state Medicaid
statute is at O.C.G.A. 49-4- 140 to 49-4-173.

families with children. Medicaid recipients get a

The details of the day to day operation of

yellow or green computet printout each month .

Georgia's Medicaid program are found in a series

which they must show td their health care provid-

of manuals issued by DFACS and DMA. The

ers. Most public and privkte hospitals, community

DFACS Economic Support services CESS) Manual

clinics, and some private!doetors accept Medicaid

contains the Medicaid polides and procedures .

Applicants for Medicaid can receive retroactive coverage to pay for medi~1 bills incurred within

relating to Medicaid eligibility for pregnant women, children and parents and children. The

three months person would

prior have

tboetehneeldliagtiebloeffaoprpMliceadtiicoanidifhtahde

they applied.

I

Medicaid is a federal entitlement program of
medical assistance for th~ poor. It is partially

DFACS State Aged, Blind and Disabled (ABO) Manual covers Medicaid eligibility for these groups of eligibles. Coverage decisions are made
pursuant to DMNs Provider Manuals. The DHR
Assessment Teamlcase Management Manual

funded and administered by the states. States do

contains the appJicant policies for nursing home

not have to participate in Medicaid. However, once level of care determinations. The best

a state chooses to participate in the program it

practitioner's manual on the Medicaid program is

must comply with federall Medicaid requirements. 1 States design their Medicaid programs within a

An Advocate's Guide to the Medicaid Program.3 This extraordinarily helpful book is

range of eligibility and setvlce options permitted

under federal law. Thus, ~ach state's Medicaid

program is unique.

I.

relatively short, yet contains encyclopedic footnotes to the federal statute, regulations and case law. For more in-depth research, the CCH Medic-

At the federal level, th~ Medicaid program is

aid/Medicare Guide provides exhaustive cover-

administered by the u.S. Department of Health and age of Medicaid.

Human Services Health clre Financing Administration (HCFA). In Georgi~, th-e Georgia Depart-

How is Medicaid different from Medicare7

mem of Medical AssistanJe (DMA) has been the

Medicare is a federally funded health insurance

single state agencyresportsible for administering

program operated by the Social Security Adminis-

Georgia's Medicaid progra1m. Effective July I, 1999, DMA will become the Divi~ion of Medical Assistance, a entity within the ~ew Department of

tration. -It is uniform across the country. The state has no role in the Medicare program..
Medicaid is state and federally funded. In

Community Health (DCH).I DCH will be the single

Georgia, the federal government contributes two-

state agency responsible rbr Medicaid.2 DMA works with the G~orgia Department of

thirds, while the State of Georgia finances onethird of the state's Medicaid budget. The state

Human Resources (DHR) in administering some of must cover certain groups of people and must

the Medicaid programs. Eligibility screens are

provide certain Medicaid services. However, states

GUi~e Watson, Sidncy D., J999, A GCLgia AdVOcates

to Health (are, funded by Health Law section of the State Bar of Georgia and

Mcrcer University Law School

.

35

have a range of optional groups they may cover and optional services they may offer. As a result: each state's Medicaid program is unique from all
others. Medicare helps pay health care costs for people
65 and over and for people who have received Social Security disability payments for at least 24 months. There is no income or resource test for Medicare. However, Medicare imposes substantial premiums, deductible and cost-sharing require-
ments. Medicaid is a needs-based welfare program with
strict financial requirements. Medicaid requires no premiums or deduetibles although many services' require small co-payments.

MEDICAID ELiGIBILITY

Who is eligible for Medicaid7 , In Georgia, Medicaid does not prOVide medical
assistance to all poor people. Individuals must meet both "categorical" and financial requirements. Categorical requirements define the kinds (Le., categories) of people and families who can qualify for Medicaid. However, people who fall within these eligibility categories must also meet stringent income and resource standards which vary for different categories of people.
Only one category of Medicaid eligibilityMedically Needy Spend Down-has no income limit. It operates like a private insurance policy with a deductible. People qualify financially for Medically Needy Spend Down when they have medical bills large enough to' meet their deductible-the amount by which their income exceeds the Medically Needy Income limit. For de~ils on this program, see page 45.

What categories of people are eligible for

Medicaid 7

.'

Categorical requirements define the kinds (i.e.,

categories) of people and families who can qualify

for Medicaid. In Georgia, the following categories

of people are eligible for Medicaid:

parents and children,

pregnant women and infants,

children through age 18, and

the aged, blind and disabled.

However, people who fall into one of these

eligibility categories must also meet stringent

income and resource standards which vary for

different categories of people.

Parents and Children. An entire family, adults as well as children, is Medicaid eligible if the children are under the age of eighteen (18), related to and living in the home with the family member receiving Medicaid with th'em.4 Children under age 19 and pregnant women can ~lso qualify under other categories of Medicaid. However, this is the only category of eligibility for adults who are not elderly, blind or totally and
permanently disabled. Por the family to be categorically eligible for
Medicaid, the children do not have to be enrolled in school. This category of Medicaid is called Low Income MediCaid (LIM).5
The following relationships meet the relative requirement:

0,

'. parents (by birth, legal adoption or step

relationship),

'

grandparents (up to great-great-great),

siblings (half, whole, step),

aunts/uncles (up tO,great, great-niecesl

nephews),

first cousins,

the children of a first cousin, (first cousin

once removed), and

spouses of any person in the above groups

even after the marriage is ended by death or

divorce. 6

Children living with a legal guardian do not satisfy the relationship requirement.7 However, such children may still qualify for other categories of Medicaid eligibility. Children in foster care and state subsidized adoptions may be eligible for this type of Medicaid; even though they do not live with one of the specified relatives. 8
Eligibility for Medicaid is not tied to welfare eligibility.9 Families receiVing cash benefits through the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families Program (TANF) are likely to be eligible for Medicaid, but only if they satisfy the Medicaid requirements which differ slightly from TANF's.l 0 Moreover, families ineligible for TANF may still be eligible for Medicaid. TANF benefits are time limited. In Georgia, a family may only receive benefits for a total of 48 months. Medicaid benefits are unlimited as long as the family meets the eligibility requirements. Although the state may terminate TANF benefits to families who fail to comply with TANF work and personal responsibility requirements, these sanctions do not apply to Medicaid benefits. 11



36



Pregnant Women and Infants. Pregnant women income eligi6le in one month of pregnancy remain eligible throJghout the pregnancy and 60
days post-partum.l 2! Infants are eligible for one '
year if the mother wi1\s eligible for and received Medicaid when the child was born, and the baby lives in the same hoJsehold as the mother. 13 This category of Medicaid is called Right from the Start
Medicaid. 14

Children age 1-1~. Children less than 19 are categorically eligible for Medicaid.1S They do not
have to be living with a dose relative. They do not
have to be attending khooI. This form of Medicaid is also called Right frbm the Start. 16 Children with too much income to b:e eligible for RSMA may be eligible for Georgia's new PeachCare program,
which is described onl page 44.

Aged, Blind and ~isabled. People who are

aged, blind, or permanently and totally disabled are categorically eligible for Medicaid.17 Medicaid's
definitions of people ~ho are aged, blind and having a disability ar~ the same ones used by the

Social Security Administration for Social Security

and Supplemental sechrity Income (SSI) benefits.l 8 ,Aged is defin~d as 65 years of age or

01der. 19 Blindness haS a detailed statutory defini-

tion. 20 Having a disability means that an indi-

vidual is unable to engage in substantial gainful

employment because of a medically determinable

impairment likely to l~t twelve months or result in

death. 21

I

In Georgia, 551 recip,ients are automatically

eligible for Medicaid.2~ Social Security Old Age

and Disability Benefit recipients automatically meet,
Medicaid's categorical ~ligibility requirements of

age, blindness or'disability. Other people may also

meet the statutory defihitions of aged, blind or'

having a disability. Ho.wever, they are only eligible
for Medicaid if they sa~sfy Medicaid's fmancial

eligibility requirements! or have sufficent medical

bills to be eligible for Medically Needy Spend Down

Medicaid. 23

Children who received 551 benefits prior to August 22, 1996. As pkrt of the recent welfare reform initiatives, Conw-ess made it more difficult for children with disabilities to qualify for SSI. As a result of this change, a ~ubstantial percentage of
I
the children receiving SSI were terminated. To
ameliorate the harsh i~pact of the SSI change,
these children continue Ito be eligible for SSI-linked
MeC;licaid even, though they no longer meet the SSI

definition of having a disability. They must still satisfy the financial and other non-di~bilitySSI eligibility requirements to continue to receive Medicaid. 24
Do income and property affect eligibility for Medicaid?
Because Medicaid is a welfare, need based program, a person must not only be categorically eligible, but must fall within strict financial guidelines-for both income and property-to be eligible.25 Some financial eligibility standards are , set by the federal government, some are set by the states, still others are chosen by states from within a range of options available under federal law. The financial limits can be confusing because both income and resource limits vary depending upon the type of categorical eligibility-parents and, children, pregnant women, children, or people who are aged, blind, or have a disability.
Some people may fit within several different categories. If someone has too much income or resources to qualify in one category, they may be able to establish eligibility under a different category. The state should consider an application for Medicaid under all the categories that may apply.26
'Example: Mom and ten-year-old Katie apply for Medicaid. Mom is six months pregnant. Katie has a disability. Mom and Katie are categorically eligible as a parent and child. Mom is categorically eligible as a pregnant woman. Katie is categorically eligible as a child and because she has a 'disability. Each of these categories of Medicaid assistance has different income and resource requirements. If Mom and Katie have too 'much income or resources for one,category of Medicaid, they should be considered for other categories for which they may be eligible.
How much income can a person have and still get Medicaid?
The income and property limits vary for different categories of Medicaid. These financial limits can be confusing because both income and resource limits vary depending upon the type' of categorical eligibility-parents and children,
pregnant women, children, Of people who are
aged, blind, or have a disability-and even within the various categorical groups. Morever, most of the income limits change once a year in either January or February.27 For an updated income chart, contact the local DFACS office, legal ser-

37

MEDICAID MONTHLY INCOME AND RESOURCE LIMITS - April 1999

Number in Assistance Group. I

Parents and Children

Pregnant Women Parents and Children and Gross Countable Infants

Children Children

Ages Ages

1-5

8 - 18

Peachcare Children
0- 18

Medically Needy
Pregnant Women, Infants &. Children

Aged - Blind - Disabled

Nursing Medically

Homel Needy, A!ed

COmmunity . alin

551

care Disabled

o

1

$435 $235 $1,271 $914 $687 $1,374 $208 $500 $1,500 $317

2

$659 $356 $1,706 . $1,226 $922 $1,844 $317 $751

$375

3

$784 $424 . $2,140 $1,539 $1,157 $2,314 $375

4

$925 $500 ( $2,575 $1,851 $1.392 $2,784 " $442

5

$1,060 $573 $3,010 $2,164 $1,627 $3,254 $504

6

$1,149 $621 $3.445 $2.476 $1.862 $3,724 $550

7

$1,243 $672 $3,879 $2,789 $2,097 $4,194 $600'

8

$1,319 $713 $4.314 $3,102 $2,332 $4,664 $633

Each Addt'r Member Add

$435

$470

Deductions from Inrome

- $50 of child surlr0rt ' - earnings of chi ren in school - earned income deductions - chUd care

-$20
- earned income deductions - 113 of child support

Resource Limit

$1,000

No Limit No Limit No Limit

i - $2.000
2 -$4,000
Addrl member,
add $100 each

1-

1 -$2,000

$2,000 Plus

COuple - $5,500

$3,000 for burial

Plus expenses.

$1.500 At horne

for"

spouse -

burial $81,960

expenses (or more

by fair

hearing or

court

~rder)

1- $2,000
Couple -
$4,000;
Plus
$5,000
for burial expenses

o

Always refer people who exceed the gt!idelines by a small amount to DFACS. Rounding and income exclusions may result in their income falling within the eligibility guidelines. 1 In determining the number of family members, an unborn child is counted as a family member. If twins are verified, they rount as two people.

o
38



vices, or the Mercer Law Library.28 I . Some people fit within several different catego-

ries. If someone has tbo much income or property for one category, con~ider other possibilities.

I
Parents and Children. The family's income I
must faIl below two different income guidelines. First. the family's gro~s income can be no more than 185% of the couhtable income guideline.29
I
AIl income is included when looking at the gross

income limit. Second. the family'S countable I
income must be at or below the countable income

limit. See page 40 for details on determining

countable income. ThJ resource limit for this

eligibility

category

is

I
$1,000.

30

Pregnant women aInd infa'nts. A pregnant
woman counts as two Ipeople for the purpose of determining income and resource eligibility.31 The income eligibility limit~ are set at 185% of the federal poverty guidelihes.32 There is no limit on .the amount of property a pregnant woman may

I .. owInfthe pregnan.t woman IS Income eII'gI'ble l"or
one month of the preghancy, she remains eligible throughout the pregnanI cy and 60 days postpar- . tum.33. The infant continues on Medicaid for one
year if the mother was! eligible for and received Medicaid when the child was born, and the baby lives in the same housbhold as the mother.34 If the mother was not M~dicaid eligible or did not receive Medicaid when!the child was born. the
infant can stiU qualify for Medicaid as long as the
family's income falls within the income guideline.

Children. The incoJe eligibility limits vary depending upon the ag~ of the child. For children

ages one to five. the intome cut off is 133% of the

federal poverty guidelirle. For children ages 6-18.

the eligibility guideline liS 100% of the property .

. level. There is no limit on the amount of property

the child's family may 6wn.

.I
Pregnant Women, I~fants, and Children -

Medically Needy. Med~cally Needy offers yet

another category of eligibility for pregnant women.

infants and children (but not for parents of children). The Medically N~edy Income Level (MNIL)
I
for pregnant women. infants. and children is lower

. than the income limits for pregnant women,

infants, and children. Hpwever. the MedicaUy

Needy resource limit is higher than that for

parents and children. If kpregnant woman or child

.

I

is ineligible for Medicaid as part of a family

because they have too many resources, they may

qualify for Medically Needy-Pregnant Women

Infants. and Children.35

.

However. the real importance of this category of

MedicaUy Needy is the only category of Medicaid

that has no absolute income cut ofT. Pregnant

women. infants and children with income higher

than the MedicaUy Needy Income Level (MNIL)

qualify for MedicaIly Needy Spend Down when

they have medical bills large enough to offset the

amount by which their income exceeds the MNIL.

For details on this important Medicaid category. .

see page 45.

People who are Aged, Blind or who have a , Disability-SSI recipients. For many applicants
who are aged. blind and have a disability, eligibility is tied to 551 income and resource levels. The 551 benefit amount in 1999 is $500 for an individual and $751 for a couple. The resource limit is $2,000 for one person and $3,000 for a couple. An additional $5,000 of property is allowed if set aside for burial expenses.36
In Georgia. all 551 recipients automatically receive Medicaid.37 They do not need to make a separate application for Medicaid.38
Other people who are aged, blind and have a disability may qualify for Medicaid under the 551 standard even if they are otherwise ineligible for S5I. People who are aged, blind or have a disability who do not qualify for 551 because of rules prohibited by Medicaid-induding some income and resource requirements, and rules relating to immigration status-are also eligible for Medicaid.39
These people must establish that they meet the categorical requirements for people who are aged, blind or have a disability as part of their application for Medicaid. For these applicants, the determination of age, blindness and disability is made by the State of Georgia.40

Nursing Home Resident/Community care Participants. Nursing home and community care services have income and resource limits that are higher than the 551 limits. The income limit is set at 300% of the 551 benefit amount, $1,500 in 1999.41
Individuals may apply using the higher institutionalized income levels after thirty days in a nursing home or other institution.42 Coverage is retroactive to the date of admission.43 This category of Medicaid is called Medical Treatment Facility (MTF) Medicaid.44

39

People who are aged. blind or disabled and meet the level of care requirements to be institutionalized in a nursing home but who chose to stay in the community and participate in a home and community-based waiver programs are also eligible for Medicaid using the same 300% of the 551 benefit amount income cut off as for nursing home care.45 For information on community care services. see page 52.
People who are Aged, Blin~ or have a Disability-Medically Needy. People who ate aged, 'blind or have a disability may also qualify as Medically Needy. The income eligibility limits for Medically Needy are lower that the 551 income cut off. However. the resource limits are higher. Most important, Medically Needy Spend Down provides Medicaid to people who have incomes higher than the 551 limits but who have medical bills large enough to offset the amount by which their income exceeds the Medically Needy Income Limits.46 For a discussion of this eligibility. see , page 45.
"
What counts as, income for Medicaid? For Medicaid purposes. income includes both
earned and unearned income. Social Security benefits. pensions. retirement. interest, dividends and in-kind assistance all count47
One set of rules is used to determine eligibility for parents and children, pregnant women and infants. children. and Medically Needy-Pregnant Women and Children.48 A different set of rules applies for the aged. blind and disabled.
Parents and Children, Pregnant Women and Infants, Children, Pregnant Women and Chil-, dren-Medically Needy. These categories of ,Medicaid eligibility all use the same method to determine an applicant's countable income.49 In determining countable income the following amounts are excluded:
earnings of children attending school full or part-time.
earned income tax credits, and $50 of child support payments.~o
In addition. earned income deductions apply to the income of each employed individual:
$90 standard work expense deduction, . an additional $30.00 earned income incentive for up to 12 consecutive months only. and

1/3 deduction of the remaining earned income for four consecutive months only.51
0 Because the $30 plus 1/3 deductions are time
limited, they are only used when needed to establish income eligibility. If the applicant or recipient is financially eligible without these deductions, they are not used.52
Finally, a deduction is allowed for child and dependent care. The actual amount of child care or care of an incapacitated individual in the home is deducted up to $175 per child for children two years of age or older. For children less than two the limit is $200 per child.53
People who are Aged, Blind or have a Disability. For the aged. blind or disabled. the first $20 of income from any source is not counted.54 Additional deductions apply to earned income55 and child support payments.56 Child support payments always count as income of the child rather than the custodial parent.57
What counts as property for Medicaid? The limits on property ownership (called "re- ", '.
o source limits" by Medicaid) vary by type of cat-
egorical eligibility. Remember, some people fit within several different categories. If someone has too much property for one category, consider other possibilities.
The only property that is counted against the resource limit is cash or other property that can be converted into cash. such as real property, automobiles, stocks, bonds, and bank accounts.58 An asset counts against the Medicaid resource limit if the individual has legal ownership and the 'legal right to sell the asset. If a person is unable to sell an asset after bona fide efforts, or the applicant has a partial interest in property which he or she is unable to sell, the assets are not considered available.59
Certain assets are exempt and not counted as resources for Medicaid purposes inclUding a person's home. household goods, a cemetery lot and prepaid funeral contracts with a funeral home.60 All automobiles (but not recreational vehicles) are exempt for people who are aged. blind or have a disability.61 For parents and children the value of one automobile up to $4650
o is not counted. but any value over that amount '
counts toward the resource limit62 Non-term life insurance policies, funeral and burial policies are also exempt.63 The cash surrender value of life insurance policies with face values morethan '

40



$5.000 count for those who are aged. blind or have a disability iIi some categories of Medicaid.64
In addition to thb regular resource allowance, applicants who arelaged. blind or have a disability are allowed an additional $1500 to $5,000 (de-
r pending on the cat~goricalgroup) to pay for
funeral expenses.6 Some categories of assistance require that burial money be in a separate account. Others allow the mbney to be co-mingled with other money.66 To !be exempt from the resource limit, this money mustbe used only for burial purposes. 67

Trusts. Assets pJ;li in a trust other than by will

are considered available regardless of the purpose of the trust and regaI rdless of whether the trustee,

has any discretion ih the use of the trust funds. 68

However, certain Itrusts are exempt: income

trusts (Miller trusts), pooled trusts managed by

nonprofit associations for disabled people, and

trusts set up by a cqurt or certain others for the benefit of a disabled person less than 65. 69

I

Whose income and resources does Medicaid

look at?

I

The income and ~ropertyof the person or family

applying for benefitJ (called the Applicationt Unit

(AU)) are used to d~termine Medicaid eligibility.

All income actually ~vailable to the applicant is

counted. 70

I

\

The only income and resources that are as-

sumed (Le., "deemed") available to the applicant

when they are not aettually made available are

income and resourcds from a spouse or from the

parents of a child leSs than 21 living in the same

household as the. applicant. 71 Income and re-

sources of stepparenfs, grandparents, siblings or

adult children living in the same household are
not co~sidered auto~atically available to the

applicant.72 Neither lare income and resources of

parents living outside the home.73 Moreover, for

people applying as categorically eligible as preg-

nant women or childten, parents' income is not

deemed available to pregnant minors and income I
is not deemed availaole from spouse to spouse

when the deemed sp6use is not the parent of the child for whom Medi~aid is sought. 74

Medicaid's deeming rules are different from

SSI's. Therefore, some people financially ineligible

for SSI may still quali:fy for Medicaid. 75

Specic:l deeming mles apply to immigrants .

entering the U.S. on dr after August 22, 1996.76
Immigrants sponsore~ by individuals (rather than

organizations) who sign legally binding affidavits

of support are deemed to have available their sponsor's income and resources. Deeming continues u,ntil the immigrant has acquired 40 quarters of Social Security coverage. 77
Children with disabilities in need of nursing home care but who chose to remain in the Community (Katie Beckett Waiver). Children under age 18 who are financially ineligible for SSI because of their parents' income, but who meet the SSI disability requirements and are in need of nursing home care are financially eligible for Medicaid if they chose to remain in the community. Georgia has a "Katie Beckett Waiver" which allows the state to waive, Le., ignore, the income and resources of these parents of children with disabilities for purposes of Medicaid eligibility.78
To be categoi"icallyeligible, "Katie Beckett" children must meet the basic level of care admission requirements to be eligible for Medicaid nursing home care. The cost of. the child's care in the community must not be more than the cost of nursing home care would be.79
If someone has Medicaid now or received Medicaid in the past, do special income roles allow them to qualify for Medicaid even if their income is over the usual Medicaid income limits?
Yes. Congress allows some people whose income increases after they begin receiving Medicaid to continue to be eligible for Medicaid. These special income rules are designed to encourage people to work and to prevent hardship to people who would become ineligible for Medicaid because of a slight increase in income.
Parents and Children with Income from Work or Child Support. Families in which the parents and children received Low Income Medicaid in at least three of the preceding six months and whose income exceeds the limits because of increased earnings or the loss of the earned income deductions remain eligible for Medicaid for up to 12 months as long as their gross income is less than 185% ofthe federal poverty line, $2575 for a family of four in 1999.80 See this Guide, starting on page 177, for 1999 Federal Poverty Guidelines. Similarly, families who received Medicaid in at least three of the preceding six months and become financially ineligible because of increased child support payments receive four (4) months of continued Medicaid coverage.81 This is called Transitional Medicaid.82

41

Families who apply for TANF but who are diverted from welfare to work are also eligible to receive Transitional Medicaid with its higher income limits.83
Pregnant women and infants. If the pregnant woman is income eligible'in one month of the pregnancy. she remains eligibl~ for Medicaid through the pregnancy a~d sixty days postpartum even if her income goes over the limit.84 The infant continues on Medicaid for one year if the mother was eligible for and received Medicaid when the child was born. and the baby lives in the same household as the mother.85
People who would be eligible for SSI but for a social security cost of living increase in 1977. or any year thereafter remain eligible for Medicaid.86 Individuals are eligible for this kind of continued Medicaid if they:
were eligible for both SSI and Social Security in any month after April 1977.
are currently eligible for and receiving Social Security,
are currently ineligible for SSI. and would be eligible for SSI after deducting -all Social Security cost of living increases received since the last month both SSI and Social Security was received by the individual.87
This kind of Medicaid is called Pickle eligibility. For a simple way to compute this eligibility. see"A Quick and Easy Method of Screening for Medicaid Eligibility Under the Pickle Amendment" by Gordon Bonneyman, included at page 57.
Widows, widowers and surviving divorced spouses who lose SSI because they obtain Social Security widow(er) or surviving spouse or special disability benefits continue to be eligible for Medicaid for two years until they become eligible for Medicare Part A coverage.88
Disabled adults receiving Social Security Disability who received 551 prior to age 22 and who lose SSI because of an entitlement to or increase in Social Security disability benefits continue to be eligible for Medicaid indefinitely:89
People Who Lose 551 because of Earnings from Work (Qualified Severely Impaired Individuals). People with disabilities who lose 551 because of earnings from work continue to be

eligible for Medicaid if losing Medicaid would seriously inhibit the ability to continue working
0 and income for work is insufficient to make up for
the loss of S51, Medicaid and attendant care.90 Eligibility for this category of Medicaid is determined by the Social 5ecurity Administration.

When will Medicaid pay for nursing home care. community care or hospice? .
Special. higher. income and resource limits apply for Medicaid payment for nursing home
care. community care in lieu of nursing home
placement. and hospice care.91

Income. Individuals who are aged. blind or

have a disability in nursing homes who are categorically eligible for SSI, but who have too much income to qualify for SSI are eligible for Medicaid as long as their income is lessthan 300% of the 5SI benefit amount. 92 People who are aged. blind or have a disability and who meet the level of care requirements to be institutional-

ized in a nursing home but who choose to stay in

the community and participate in a home and

community-"based waiver program are also eligible

0 for Medicaid using the same income limit.93
People who meet the eligibility criteria for hospice

may also use the higher 300% of 551 income .

limit. 94

.

.

In 1999. the income limit for Medicaid nursing

home. community.care and hospice is $1500 per

month. The income guideline is the same whether

or

not

the

applicant

is \

married.95

Individuals

m.ay

apply using the higher institutionalized income

levels after thirty days in a nursing home or other

institution.96 Coverage is retroactive to the date of

admission. For nursing home residents. this

category of Medicaid is called Medical Treatment Facility (MTF) Medicaid.97

Medically Needy Nursing Home. Because of the high cost of nursing home care-on average $3.000 to $4.000 for private pay rates in Atlantapeople with fairly substantial incomes can qualify for Medically Needy 5pend Down to pay for nursing home care. For details on Medically Needy eligibility. see page 45.

Property. If the person seeking Medicaid payment for nursing home or community care is

0

married and the spouse lives in the community

rather than in a nursing home or a personal care I

home that accepts Medicaid, the couple may have

not more than $80,760 in countable resources at

42

(



the time application is made for Medicaid.98 Within one year after ~ualifying for benefits. no

more than $2,000 of Gountable resources may be

in the Medicaid recipi&nt's name. The balance

mUSI be transferred td the spouse.99 If the appli-

cant has nursing

hnoomsepoour speerosrolinfatlhceasrepohuosmeel,ivtehse

in a resource

limit is $2.000 at the Vime of application.! 00

nansfer of Assets] Transfer of assets provisions apply to people 'Jeeking Medicaid to pay for
nursing home care an& community-based services in lieu of nursing homle care.lollf an asset is given away for l~ss th1n fair market value within 36 months (60 month~ for certain trusts) of an
I
application for Medicaid, the person wiIl,be ineli-
gible for nursing homd and community-based services for up to a m~ximum of 30 months. 102
I , ' The person remains eligible for other Medicaid
services. I03

Exceptions to the transfer of assets policy exist for:

transfers between spouses, transfers exclusivdly for a purpose other than to qualify for Medicaid!
transfers to a trustl to benefit a person with a disability under age 65,
transfers by the spbuse in the community after Medicaid eligibility is established, and
undue hardship. lor

Estate Recovery Program. Federal law re-

quires that states have Ian estate recovery ,program

for the costs of long ter\l1 care and community-

based care provided to people age 55 and older. I 05

Georgia has not yet imi?lemented a recovery

program and is presently seeking to get an exemption from the federal la~'.

TIle proposed. but nqt implemented, Georgia

estate recovery program would only affect people

age 55 and older who rbceive Medicaid long term

care services or commuhity-based services on or

afler the date the progrdm goes into effect. After

the patient's death, the ktate. through a private

contractor, would seek tb recover the costs of

unnudrseirngh~ ohmome aensdercvo' icmeI ms Junnditys-ebrvaisCeeds

provided waivers. Other

I l\1edicaid services are n6t subject ro the estate
recovery program. 106

Tile estate recovery program would operate by

placing liens on lhe dccJased Medicaidrecipient's l'c,ilcSl,lle, inclLlliing 111(~ homc. In Gcorgia, recov-

ery on the liens would not be enforced until anyone living in the home is dead or, until someone attempts to sell the property. Under federal Medicaid law, the state may only seek recovery after the death of the Medicaid recipient's spouse and minor or disabled child, if any. Recovery must be waived if it will work an undue hardship. 107
What special Medicaid program helps children with severe disabilities remain in the community?
Children under age 18 who are financially ineligible for 551 because of their parents' income, but who meet the 551 disability requirements and are in need of nursing home care are financially, eligible for Medicaid if they chose to remain in the community. Georgia has a "Katie Beckett Waiver" which allows the state to waive, Le., ignore, the income and resources of these parents of children with disabilities for purposes of Medicaid eligibility. 108
To be categorically eligible, "Katie Beckett" children must meet the basic level of care admis- ' sion requirements to be eligible for Medicaid nursing home care. The cost of the child's care in the community must be not more than the cost of nursing home care would be. 109
What special Medicaid programs exist for Medicare beneficiaries?
All Medicare beneficiaries qualify as categorically eligible for Medicaid because they are aged, blind or disabled. Some Medicare beneficiaries have incomes low enough to be financially eligible for Medicaid (see page 40) or Medically Needy Spend Down (see pages 45 through 47).
Low income Medicare beneficiaries with incomes above the limits for regular Medicaid or Medically Needy Spend Down Medicaid may still qualify for limited Medicaid benefits to help pay . the out-of-pocket costs charged by Medicare. 110 This limited Medicaid helps with Medicare costs only. It does not pay for prescription drugs or other services not covered by Medicare. Medicare recipients with limited Medicaid get a red Medicaid card.
In calculating income the first $20 per month of income from any source is disregarded. The resource limits are $4,000 for individuals and $6,000 for a couple. An additional $5,000 is allowed for burial expenses. I II

43

Special Medicaid Programs for Low Income Medicare Beneficiaries

Program

Monthly Income Limit 1999

Individual

Couple

Benefits

Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries (QMB)

$687

$922

Part B premium - $43.80/month Part A deductible - $790/spell of illness Part B deductible - $1 oo/year Part B - 20% cost-sharing

Specified Low-Income Medicare Bencficiaries (SLMB)

$824 . ..

$1.106

Part B premiums - $43.80/month

Qualified medicare .Bcneficiary 1 (QMB 1)

$927

$1,443

Part B premiums - $43.80/month

Qualified Medicare Bcneficiary 2 (QMB2)
Qualified Working Disabled Individual (QWDI)

$1,443
, $1.374

$1,936 $1,844

Portion of Part B premiums attributable to home health $1.20/month
Part A premiums - $43.80/month

Resource Limits for All:

1 - $4.000; couple - $6.000; plus $5.000 for burial expenses

o

QMB. SLMB. Medicare beneficiaries with income u'p to tOO percent of the federal poverty line arc eligible for the Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries (QMB) program. 112 Those with income up to t 20 percent of the federal guidelines are eligible for the Specified Low Income Beneficiaries (SLM~) category.113
QMB and SLMB are entitlement programs and eligibility operates like other categories of Medicaid. Anyone who applies for benefits and meets the eligibility criteria receives the benefits.
QMB t and QMB2. Medicare beneficiaries with incomes up to t 35 percent of the federal poverty line qualify for the Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries 1 (QMB t) category of eligibility.!!4 Beneficiaries with incomes up to 175 percent of the poverty index qualify for as Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries 2 (QMB2). 115
Thc QMB 1 and QMB2 programs are not entitlement programs. Funds for the programs are limited and benefits are provided on a first come. firstserved basis. TIlose receiving benefits at the end of one year have priority to receive benefits the next year. Both QMB t and QMB2are scheduled to end I in 2002.116
QMB does not provide retroactive Medicaid coverage for the three months prior to the month of application. TI1C 'other special programs do.!!?

Qualified Disabled Working Individuals. Social Security Disability recipients who begin

0

working, exhaust their 48-month trial work

period of extended Medicare coverage and are not

eligible otherwise eligible for Medicaid. are

eligible to have the state Medicaid program pay

their Medicare Part A premiums so that they may

continue to receive Medicare coverage. l1B The

income limit is 200 percent of the federal poverty

guideline.

Is there a state medical insurance program for children with income over the Medicaid limits?
Children over the Medicaid limits but with .incomes up to 200% of the federal poverty guideline are eligible for Georgia's new Peachcare for Kids Program. Peachcare differs from Medicaid because parents of children six through eighteen must pay monthly premiums - $7.50 for one child, and $15 for two or more children. For children under six. the coverage is free.
For details on the Peachcare income guidelines, see the Medicaid Monthly Income and Resource
0 Chart on page 38. There is no limit on the amount
of property a child's family may own. Children of
state employees are not eligible for Peachcare. Neither are children enrolled in other health plans. However. children eligible for private insurance who have not enrolled because of the

44



cost of coverage are eligible for PeachCare.

Children must be Georiia residents age zero to
eighteen, and u.s. citizens or legal immigrants as

of August 22, 1996. I

Children enrolled in Peachcare receive the same

services as in Medicaid,l except that they do not

get non-emergency transportation or targeted

case management servites. All medical providers

enrolled in Medicaid arJ also Peachcare providers. Children enrolled in Pe~chcare must enroll in

Medicaid's Georgia Betth Health care (GBHC) pnmary care case managI ement program, or a

Medicaid HMO. For details on Georgia Better

Health Care see page 56:.

Application for PeachCare is made by filling out

an application form andlmailing it to PeachCare

for Kids, P.O. Box 2583, Atlanta, GA 30310-

2583. A PeachCare application is included in Chapter 9, Forms. Be surIe to check the box that

asks if you are also intetested in applying for

I



Medicaid - coverage is the same and it does not

require a monthly premihm. PeachCare coverage

starts as soon as any required monthly premium

($7.50 or $15.00) is received), so it is best to

send the first month's pjemium with the applica-

tion. The state maintains a toll-free number to answer questions about Peachcare at 1-877-427-
3224.
PeachCare will send a written notice if an appli- cation is denied. There is a right to appeal any
denial.
When can people with income over the guidelines qualify for Medicaid and get Medically Needy Spend Down?
People who are categorically eligible for Medicaid as pregnant women, infants, children, or aged, blind .or dis~bled - but who 'have too much income may be eligible for Medically Needy Spend Down Medicaid. I 19 Medically Needy Spend Down is the one Medicaid eligibility group that has no absolute income limit. It operates like a private insurance policy with a deductible. People qualify financially for Medically Needy Spend Down when they have medical bills large enough to meet their deductible-the amount by which their income exceeds the Medically Needy Income limit.
Applicants with incomes up to the Medically Needy Income Level qualify for regular (also called defaeto) Medically Needy.120 People with higher

I
Medically Needy Monthly Income and Resource Limits - 1999 I

Number in

I

Assistance Groupi

Pregnant Women, Infants and Children

People who are Aged, Blind or have a Disability

1

I

$208

$317

2

I

$317

$375

3

I

4

I

5

I

6

I

7

I

$375 $442 $504 $550 $600

8

I

$633

Each Additional

Member Add

I

$

Income Deductions

-$50 of child support - earnings of children in school - earned income ded uctions - earned income deductions
- child care

- $20 - earned income deductions
- 1/3 of child support

Resource Limits

1 - $2.000 2 - $4.000 . Additional members add $100 each

1 - $2.000 Couple - $4.000 Plus $5.000 for burial expense

45

incomes qualify if they have medical bills equal to

or greater than the amount by which their income

exceeds the Medically Needy Income Levels

(MNIL).121

,

,

The resource limits for Medically Needy are also

higher than those for other categories of eligibility.

(See Chart. Medically Needy Monthly Income and

Resource Limits - 1999; page 45)

Medical bills that can be used to spend down.

Almost any medical bills the applicant or the

applicant's family still owes or which were paid in

the months for which Medicaid is sought (called

the "budget period") can be used to meet the

Spend Down requirement-bills from doctors,

pharmacies, hospitals. even travel to and from care. 122 Health insurance and Medicare premiums may be used. 123 Bills paid by health insurance or

other private third party payers may not be applied to the Spend Down. 124 However, bills paid by

state and local government programs may be used

to meet the Spend Down amount. 125 Bills paid

with borrowed money, like credit cards, may be

used if the applicant still owes the month or the

money was repaid during the budget period.

Period of Eligibility. Eligibility for Medically Needy Spend Down is computed on a month by month basis. Eligibility can be certified for up to six months depending on the size of the medical bills and the applicant's spend down amount. Eligibility can also be for up to three months prior to the month of application. 126
Medically Needy Spend Down will not pay medical bills that are used to reach the Spend Down income level. but it can pay other outstanding bills incurred in the three months prior to application and for care obtained once eligible for Medicaid. 127

How Medically Needy Spend Down Works. In determining financial eligibility for Medically Needy-Pregnant women, Infants and Children countable income and resources are computed the same way they are for these categories of regular medicaid. 128 The same deductions from income apply: $50 of children support, earned income deductions, and child care. Similarly. the aged, blind and disabled get the same deductions as for regular Medicaid: the first $20 of income from any source, earned income deductions. one third of child support. See page 45 for details.
Medically Needy Medicaid can help pay ongoing medical bills and it can also help pay outstanding hospital and other medical bills incurred within

three months of the date of application for Medic-

aid. Some examples of how Medically Needy

Spend Down eligibility operates show a few ways the program can assist people.

o

Example 1: Mrs. Jones is 65 and receives $645 in Social Security retirement benefits. She has Medicare, but it does not pay for her prescription drugs which cost $250 per month. Mrs. Jones does not have to pay any Medicare premiums or cost sharing because QMB Medicaid pays these amounts for her. Mrs. Jones has an unpaid hospital bill from two years ago of $1 875. Mrs. Jones seeks Medically Needy Spend Down to help with her ongoing drug bills. Because Mrs. Jones is aged, the Medically Needy Income Level for one person is $317 per month.

People Who Are Medically Needy Aged, Blind, or Have a Disability

Countable Income $645 - $20 =

$ 625

Medically Needy Income Level for 1 $ 317

MediCally Needy Spend Down Amount $ 308 (excess income

Outstanding Medical Bills Outstanding medical bills divided by

$ 1,875
6'.1

MN Spend Down Amount

Mrs. Jones is eligible for 6 months of Medically Needy Spend Down.

,0

Mrs. Jones is eligible for six months of Medically Needy Spend Down. Medicaid will not pay the bills Mrs. Jones used to meet her spend down. Neither will Medicaid pay for bills incurred more than three months prior to the date of application. She can use the Medicaid card to pay for her care during her six months of eligibility.

Example 2: Jamie Brown is fourteen years old.

He is hospitalized in March ,and the bill is $8,260.

Jamie lives with his mother whose gross monthly

income from employment is $4000. Jamie's family

seeks Medicaid to pay for his hospital bill. Jamie

does not meet the SSI definition of a disabled

child. Therefore, he seeks Medically Needy Spend

Down-Pregnant Women, Infants and Children.

The Medically Needy Income Level for two is
$317.

o

46



Medic~lIy Needy
Pregnant women,! Infants and Children

I - Gross monthly income

-$90 earned income deductions

-$30

I

-1/3 remainder

Countable monthly income
I ~ O
Medically Needy Income Lt n llt lor 2

$ 4,000
$ 2,587 $ 317

Medically Needy Spend Down Amount (excess income)

$ 2,270

I OU1SIandin o medical bills b
I Outstanding medical bill -spend down amount

$8,260 $ 5,990

Medically Need Spend Down will pay for $5,990 of

the hospital bill.

I

Jamie is eligible for MlediCallY Needy Spend
Down (0 pay for $5990 bf the hospital bill. Medic-
aid will not pay for the $2283 in hospital bills that Jamie used (0 spend doJn to the Medically Needy Income Level. However, Jamie may be eligible for another source of free o~ reduced cost care to pay for the hospital costs. See page 175 for sources of free and reduced cost caliIe.
-
Example 3: Mr. Quin has monthly income of $2500. His nursing home private pay bill is $2.500. Mr. Quin see~s edically Nee~y s~end Down-Aged, Blind. Disabled to help with hiS
mlrsin~ home bill. I

I

.

Medically Needy Nursing Home

I
I
1- Countable Income $2,50 $20 =
Medically Needy Income Limit for 1

$ 2.480
$ 317

I Medically Needy Spend Dhwn Amount
(excess income)

$ 2,163

Nursing Home monthly private pay rate $ 3,000

Outstanding medical bill .-spend down amount

$ 837

I . Medically Needy will pay for $837 of. the monthly
nursing home bill.

~edicallY Mr. Quin is eligible for

Needy Nursing

Home. tr will pay for $837\ of the cost of nursing

hOllle care-the amount above Mr. Quin's

Medically Needy Spend Down Amount. Nursing home residents whose nursing home or
hospice private pay biiling rates exceed their . monthly Spend Down amounts are eligible for Medicaid for the entire month. 129 Residents whose billing rates do not exceed their income, may have their actual medical expenses deducted in chronological order. Eligibility begins the day the projected nursing home/hospice billing rate for the remainder of the month equals or exceeds the remaining Spend Down amount.
Are there other eligibility requirements for receiving Medicaid benefits?
Residency. An applicant mus.t be a resident of Georgia. There is no time limit to establish resi--: dency. only the intention to permanently reside in Georgia. 130 Homeless applicants may qualify for Medicaid. They do not have to provide an address. but must provide information to show that they are residents of the county in which they apply. 131
Citizenship. U.S. citizens are eligible for Medicaid. 132 Children born in the United States to noncitizens parents are U.S. citizens and eligible for Medicaid.
Immigrants. Some immigrants are eligible for regular Medicaid benefits. Those who are not may be eligible for emergency Medicaid. 133
Immigrants who entered the U:S. prior to August 22, 1996 as lawful permanent residents are eligible for Medicaid. 134 Most immigrants entering the U.S. after that date are disqualified from regular Medicaid for five years from their date of entry. 135 However, the following immigrants remain eligible for Medicaid from their date of entry if they meet the categorical and financial eligibility requirements:
lawful permanent residents; asyJees; refugees; individuals:
paroled into u.s. for one year.
whose deportation is Withheld. granted conditional entry, born in canada who have at least 50% "blood of the American Indian race"; 136 certain battered spouses/children; 137 Cuban and Haitian entrants;~38 and Amerasian immigrants. 139 .~ All other non-citizens - those who are undocumented, those who have amnesty. those on a

47

temporary visa. tQose in the five-year waiting

which kind of Medicaid they are applying for. It is

period - are eligible for emergency Medicaid as they meet the categorical and financial eligibility requirem~nts. Emergency Medicaid provides

best to check all kinds. However, the state is

reqUired to consider a~ application for Medicaid under all categories of eligibility.

o

emergency medical sen'ices. An emergency is

defined as symptoms of sufficient severity that the Will Medicaid pay for medical bills incurred

absence of immediate medical attention' could

prior to the date of application for Medicaid?

reasonably be expected to result in:

Medicaid pays for medical services that were

provided to the recipient in the three months prior

placing the paticllI's health in seriolls jeop-

afl1y,

.

.

to the month of application for Medicaid if the beneficiary would have been eligible for Medicaid

serious impairment of bodily functions.

had she/he applied. 147 The services must be ones

serious dysfunction of any bodily organ or

that Medicaid normally covers.

bodily part. or

The Qualified Medicare Beneficiary Program

labor and delivery.140

(QMB) ,which uses Medicaid money to pay for

Medicare cost-sharing requirements does not have

OFACS does not repon illegal immigrants who

retroactive coverage. QMB coverage begins the

receive Medicaid to the INS. They do report those

first day of the month folIowing the month in

who receive Food Stamps.141

which eligibility is determined. Other special

programs for low-income Medicare beneficiaries

May families who are disqualified from receiv-

do provide retroactive coverage. 148

ing TANF wdfare payments receive Medicaid

benefits?

Where does someone apply for Medicaid?

Yes. Eligibility for r-.\edicaid is not tied to eligi-

All applications for Medicaid are 'made at the

bility for TANF.142 Families may only receive

local office of the Department of Family and

TANF benefits for a total of 48 months. Medicaid benefits are unlimited as long as the family meets categorical and financial eligibility require-

o Children's Services (DFACS) except for 551 applica-
tions which are filed at the district office of the ' Social Security Administration. A listing of DFACS

lIlemoS. J4J While the state may terminate the

and SSA office addresses and phones numbers is

TANF benefits of adults who fail to comply with

the Guide on pages 65 and 102.

TANF work and personal responsibility require-

Most Medicaid applications must be process

ments, these sanctions cannot be applied to Medicaid. 144 Medicaid does not have work or

within forty-five (45) days. The state~as sixty (60) days to process applications involving a claim

personal responSibility requirements. 145 ,

_ of eligibility based upon disability.149

An adult or family terminated from TANF

shoulclllot be automatically terminated from

What can someone do if he or she is denied

l\\cdicaid. Medicaid eligibility should be separately Medicaid?

. considered and the state should not terminat.e

Ask for a 'fair hearing. Medicaid recipients can

Medicaid eligibility if the adult. children or entire

appeal denials of eligibility and delays in deciding

family qualifies for any category or multiple

eligibility. The time limit for filing an appeal is

categories of Medicaid. 146

thirty days from the date of denial.

What are Right from the Start Medicaid and

Low Income Medicaid?

Confusion often arises because Georgia calls

various pans of its Medicaid program by various

names. Pregnant women and children qualify for

Right from the Start Medicaid. Parents and

children qualify for Low Income Medicaid (LIM). Persons in nursing homes are eligible for Medicaid Medical Treatment Facility (MTF). Each of

o

these programs is still Medicaid and must comply

with federal Medicaid law.

,

The Medicaid application asks people to indicate

48



MEDICAIID SERVICES

intennediate care facility services for people

with mental retardation (ICF/MR);169

dental services;170

How does Medicaid coverage work?

vision care;171

Each month, all metnbers of the family eligible

I

for Medicaid receive a Medicaid card-a computer

I

.

printout-in the mail. rtte card should be shown

home or community-based services including adult day rehabilitation. alternative living services, and home delivered services to individuals who

to the provider of medical services before services would otherwise need nursing home or other are provided. The health care provider will make a institutional care;172

copy of the Medicaid 4rd and bill the state Medicaid program for the services. Some services require small co-paym~nts, but others do not.

.hospice care;173 and transportation to and from necessary care.174

Pregnant women and children never have to pay anything. No co-paym~nts are required for

These are called "covered" services. If the Medicaid program refuses to pay for a service

emergency care or for those enrolled in an HMO. Most Georgia Medi~d recipients receive
services through Georgia Better Health care (GBHC), a primary car~I case management pro-

because it is "not covered" first check the Department of Medical Assistance Policies and Procedures which provide details on each covered service.I7S Then review the federal Medicaid regulations

gram, or an HMO. GBHC enrollees get a lime

which provide detailed definitions of the services

green card. HMO enrollees get a tan card. Other

that Georgia's Medicaid program must provide. 176

Medicaid recipients get \a yellow card. Medicare

recipients with limited Medicaid benefits get a red What screening, diagnosis, and preventative

card. For an explanatioh of-the limited services

services does Medicaid provide for chHdren?

available to these Meditare recipients. see pages

. 43-44.

I

The 'federal Medicaid statute requires the state to provide an Early and Periodic SCreening. Diagnosis,

r If the Medicaid card does not arrive in the mail
or is lost, a replacemen~ card can be obtained from the local DFACS office. A replacement card can be issued the same y ilis requested.' so
What services does Medicaid cover?

and1teatment (EPSDT) program that delivers a full range preventive, diagnostic and treatment services to children under the age of 21.117 EPSDT includes periodic well-chiJd medical. dental, vision, and hearing check ups, immunizations, laboratory tests. and health education.178 Diagnostic and

In Georgia, the types of medical care covered by treatment services are covered for both newly

Medicaid include:

diagnosed conditions as well as pre-existing conditions.179 Moreover. EPSDT requires aggres-

physiciari and otheF licensed practitioner services,151 including nhrse practitioners,152
nurse midwives, 153 physician assistants, 154 Podiatrists, 155 and optotInetrists156.'
I rural and other federally qualified health
clinic services;157

sive outreach efforts to inform children and their parents about the importance of preventive care and the availability of EPSDT services. 180
Health Cbeck is the early and periodic screening component ~f Georgia's EPSDT program. lSI It

hospital care, both inpatient and outpatient

services; 158

I

.

includes comprehensive physical examinations, health and developmental histories, developmental



Xpr-ersacyrsipatinodnladbrutgess;t1s5l;9l60

.

checkups and preverttive care' for children; 161

family planning;162 1

.

home health services;163

assessments, vision and bearing tests, lab proce- ' dures and lead risk assessments at regular. age appropriate intervals.182
Because of EPSDT. Georgia must cover all medically necessary diagnostic 'and treatment

physical. speech, and occupational therapy; mental health servic~sl64 . substance abuse treaItm' ent; 165 orthotics and prosthbtics;166

services for children under 21 years of age indud:" ing mental health care, vision and dental ser~ vices. l83 Medicaid eligible services that are not covered for adults are covered for children.

durable medical walkers, ete.);167

equi!Ipment

(wheel

ch.airs.

nursing home care; 168

.- .
49

What limits does Georgia place on services for children?
Medicaid must pay for all medically necessary care for children under 21 that falls within one of the broad categories eligible for federal Medicaid. reimbursement184 Federal law divides Medicaid services into two categories: mandatory and optional services. 18S For adults, the state must cover mandatory services and it may, but is not required to, cover optional services. Under EPSDT the state must provide optional as well as mandatory services to children under age 21. 186 This means that children are eligible for some types of services that are not provided to adults.
Moreover, EPSDT requires that children be provided all medically necessary treatment that falls within a category of covered services. 187 While the state may place reasonable limits on covered services for adults, it may not refuse to provide care that is medically necessary for children. 188
Again, this means that children are eligible for some medical services that are not covered for adults. For example, Georgia's Medicaid program does not cover hearing aids for adults, but does for children. 189
What limits does Georgia place on Medicaid services for adults?
The state may, and does, place limits on medically necessary services for adults. First, all services for adults must fall within the broad categories of care covered by Georgia's Medicaid program. See the list of covered services at the beginning of this chapter. Moreover, some services are specifically excluded even though they fall within the broad categories of care covered by Medicaid. For example:
cosmetic surgery, hearing aids,190 routine foot care including removal of corns and warts,191 dental services are limited to emergency care and extraction of teeth, 192 vision care does not include refractive exams. or eyeglasses. 193
The federal Medicaid regulations provide detailed definitions of the services that Georgia must cover. If the state refuses to approve or pay for care because the service is "not covered" or specifically excluded from a covered category first check the Depanment of Medical Assistance

Policies and Procedures which provide details on each covered serVice. 194 Then review the federal
0 Medicaid regulations which provide detailed
definitions of the services that Georgia's Medicaid program must provide. 19S
Second, the state places some numerical limits
on medically necessary services for adults:

physician services - 12 visits per year, 196
home health, physical, speech and occupational services - 75 visits per year, 197 and
prescription drugs - 5 per month. 19B

However, only the numerical limits on home health care are absolute. 199 Medicaid will pay for

physician visits and prescription drugs above the

numerical limits" when they are medically neces-

sary and medically justified. The treating physi-

cian needs to request extra services and explain

why they are medically necessary.200 If the

request for additional services is denied, the

recipient has a right to a fair hearing to contest the decision.201 .

Third, both durable medical equipment and

prescription drugs each have a formulary list of

approved items. Medicaid will pay for drugs and medical equipment not listed in the formularies

0

when they are medically necessary and the listed items are an inadequate substitute.202 The

treating physician needs to request prior approval

for items not on the formularies and justify their need.203 If the prior approval request is denied,

the recipient has a right to a fair hearing to contest the decision.204

While federal Medicaid law allows Georgia to

place numerical limits on services and use formu-

1aries' all limitations on medically necessary

services for adults must be reasonable and the

services must be "sufficient in amount, duration

and scope to reasonably achieve their purpose" and the purpose of the Medicaid Act.20S Numeri-

cal limits are considered reasonable if they meet

the needs of most individuals eligible for Medicaid.206 Formularies are reasonable when there is

an adequate process for adding new items to the

list and prescribing items not on the formulary but necessitated by individual circumstances.207

The state is also prohibited from denying

0 Medicaid services solely because of the person's
I diagnosis, type of illness or condition.20B Thus, it

is a violation of federal law for a state Medicaid

program to pay for eyeglasses for people with

cataracts and refuse to pay for eyeglasses for people with vision problems.209 Similarly, a state

50



Medicaid program could not refuse to pay for AZT treatment for HIV when ~Ihe drug was the only
tprreeastcmriepntitoanvdairluagbsleinwlhifiledlapnadyidnegatfhorsailtluoattihoenrs~210



What kinds of medicallquiPment and devices
does Medicaid cover? I
Medicaid covers the rental or purchase of a
whole range of medical equipment and supplies
including hospital beds, theelchairs, oxygen equipment, and walkers. ~edicaid also covers devices such as artificial limbs, braces, glasses and artificial eyes.2i I Medicaid does not cover hearing
aids for adults. 212 Meditaid does not cover
.equipment which is prim~rily and customarily
f . used for non-medical pur~oses, such as air condi-
tioning or bathtub liftS.2l For children, Medicaid covers any medical
equipment or devices that are medically neces-
sary.214 For adults, Meditaid has a formulary of
approved medical equipm~nt and devices.2IS
Some items are specifically excluded from coverage. 216 Items not on the formulary but not specifically excluded, , mI ay\ be covered "lor adults when medically justified oy the physician.217
Equipment and supplieS must be prescribed by
i a physician.2lB Prior app~oval is required for
many, if not most, items.2 9 .



What kind of mental health, mental
retardation, and alcohol land drug treatment
services does Medicaid d>Ver?
Medicaid covers outpatibnt and inpatient mental
health and substance abu~e treatment. and habili-
tation care for those with rhental retardation. .
Covered outpatient servicek include diagnosis,
therapy, counseling, medicktion administration
and day treatment.220 Me~iicaid provides shortterm, acute care inpatient ~ospital services for
these conditions. Medicaid \also covers longer term
inpatient psychiatric care for children under 21,
and nursing home care in ihtermediate care
facilities for those with mehtal retardation.
For adults, Medicaid pa~s for psychiatric evalu-
ations and some forms of ~sychiatric therapy
provided by. a licensed phy~ician or psychia-
trist.22I Other outpatient rltental health services I.
for adults must be provided by community mental I
health centers, now called Gommunity Service Boards.222 A list of these denters is included
onpages 19-21. Adult mentkl health outpatient
services must be clinic base~. They may not be
provided at the person's residence. .
21. For children under age outpatient services

do not have to be clinic based and may be pro-
vided at.the child's residence or other medically
appropriate location as long as it is not a public institution, free-standing psychiatric hospital or nursing home.223 Services may be provided by
community mental clinics or any private licensed psychologist who agrees to participate in Medicaid. 224
Mental health, mental retardation, and alCohol
and drug abuse screenings and services are required as part of the Early Periodic Screening;
Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT) program for children under 21.225 EPSDT mandates that Georgia's Medicaid program cover all medically necessary mental health. mental retardation and substance abuse treatment for children under 21. The state may not place an absolute limit on the number of hours of services for children.226 For details on the EPSDT requirements, see the section discussing Medicaid services for children.
Inpatient hospital care for mental illness, mental retardation, and alcohol and drug treatment is covered for adults and children.227 Partial hospitalization services designed to prevent hospitalization are also covered. 228 However, federal law prohibits Medicaid from reimbursing institutions for mental illnesses.229 This means that Medicaid does not cover mental health and substance abuse services provided to adults in a nursing home,
public mental institution, or free standing psychiatric facility.230
Medicaid also pays for long term inpatient care provided in intermediate care nursing home facilities for those with mental retardation (leFI MR).231 In addition, Georgia has a waiver of
certain provisions of the federal Medicaid law to allow it to provide home and community-based services to those who are mentally retarded or have other developmental disabilities like cerebral palsy, epilepsy or autism which result in impairment of general intellectual functioning or adap-
tive behavior and who, but for the home services, would be institutionalized in a hospital or nursing home. 232 The Mental Retardation Waiver Program
(MRWP) allows Georgia's Medicaid program to pay for support services like respite care, personal support services, day habilitation services. supported employment services and specialized medical equipment and supplies that are not normally covered by Medicaid.233 To apply for the Mental Retardation Waiver. contact the local office of the Division of Family and Children's Services. A list of addresses and phone numbers is included on pages 65-68. .

51

What community care services does Georgia

eesp participants. with sufficient income must

offer to help people with disabilities and elderly individuals stay out of nursing homes and other institutions and remain in the community?

0 , contribute to the cost of their care. See page 53 for
details.
Local Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) proces~
applications for eesp. See page 69 of this Guide

Georgia has a number of waivers of certain

for a list of AAAs, their service areas. and phone

provisions of the federal Medicaid law to allow it

numbers.

to provide home and community-based services to

elderly and disabled individuals who, but for the

Mental Retardation Waiver Program

home services, would be institutionalized in a

(MRWP) provides community based services to

hospital Of nursing home. 234 The waivers allow

people with mental retardation or have other

Georgia's Medicaid program to pay for support

developmental disabilities like cerebral palsy,

services, like respite care and homemaker services, epilepsy or autism which result in impairment of

that are not normally covered by Medicaid.235

general intellectual functionrng or adaptive behav-

To be eligible for the waiver programs, individu- ior.242 MRWP's additional services include:

als must:

.

service coordination

need the level of caie provided by a nursing

residential training and supervision

home, intermediate care facility for the mentally

personal support services,

retarded or other extended institutional stay,

respite care services

be assessed and determined appropriate for

day habilitation services,

one of the waiver programs: and

supported employment services

reside in a residential home setting, either his

personal emergency response service

or her own home, another person's home or a personal care or group home.236
Medicaid recipients who need extended care in a hospital. nursing home, or'intermediate care

specialized medical equipment and supplies that are not normally covered by Medicaid including:
assistive technology. adaptive equipment,

o

facility for the mentally retarded must be informed

vehicle adaptations.

about services available under the waiver pro-

environmental modifications,

grams and given a choice between institutional and community-based care.237

protective chucks, diapers,

Each waiver program is .limited to the number of slots funded by the Georgia legislature.238

food supplements, home based services,

Some have long lists of people waiting to get into

skilled nursing care,

the program. The state can increase the number of

home health aid services,

slots, and decrease the waiting lists, by increasing

physical, speech, and occupational

the state funds available to fund home and 'community-based care.239

therapies.243

Georgia'S home and community-based waivers

Independent Care Waiver Program (ICWP)

include the following programs:240 .

provides services to people with severe physical

disabilities and individuals with traumatic brain

Community Care Services Program (CCSP)'

injuries who are age 21 or older. Enhanced

provides special services to the frail elderly so they services include:

.

can remain in their own home or community.

CCSP participants are eligible for all the usual Medicaid services, plus:

case management. homemaker,

personal care services.

adult day health, alternative living services, personal support services,

environmental modification, skilled nursing, transportation.

o

emergency response system,

specialized medical equipment and supplies.

altcrnativcliving services,

personal emergency response systems,

respite care, and home delivered meals. 241

companion services. 52



counseling, and

occupational therapy.

-

~th ICWP participants sufficient income must

contribute to the cost of their care. see page 53

b~~~.

'

Model Waiver Program provides specialized medical care to children under 21 who are ventilator dependent. The a~ditional waiver services
r offered include specialized skilled nursing care
and medical day care.2 4 This waiver is intended to provide specific time limited nursing services until the primary care ~ver assumes responsibility for the care of the patient.245 Some partici- ,
pants in the Model wailier may have to contribute to the cost of their care. See page 53 for details.
I
service Options Using Resources in the Community Environ~ent (SOURCE) provides primary and preventive! care to elderly people eligible for both Medicaid and Medicare who are at risk of long term institutionalization. '
l . Shepherdcare proVla' es pnmary and preven- '
tive care for people with severe physical disabilities after their initial ho~pitalization and release;
Persons wishing to apply for a waiver program should contact the local!office of the Department of Family and Children's Services (DFACS). Community care applic~tions are coordinated with the Department of Publif Health and the Office of Aging. Applications for fhe MRWP are coordinated by the County Boards of Health and the State Division of Mental! Health, Mental Retardation, and Substance Abuse. All other waiver
I
applications are received by the Depanment of Medical Assistance for review of appropriateness of coverage.

Does Medicaid pay for organ transplants? Georgia's Medicaid prbgram covers kidney,
liver, bone marrow and epmea transplants for
f everyone. It also covers ~ean transplants for
children under age 21.24 Prior approval is required for liver, bone marrow and hean transplants.247

I What family planning services does Medicaid
, cover? Medicaid provides a full range of family plan-
ning services including c6unseling and medical examinations.248 Coveretl binh control includes prescription contraceptivds. Norplant, Depo-

provera and condoms.249 Family planning services are provided by public health clinics, physicians, nurse midwives, and nurse practioners.250
Medicaid covers abonions when the life of the mother would be endangered if the fetus were carried to term, or if the mother is a victim of rape. or incest.251 Medicaid does not pay for sterilizations for anyone under the age of 21.252

-What does the patient pay for Medicaid services?
Generally, providers must accept Medicaid payment as payment in full.253 Small co-payments are required for cenain routine services, but providers may not refuse care to a person unable to make the co-payment.254 Co-payments may not be charged for emergency services, or for any services provided to pregnant women, children under age 21, hospice, or dialysis.255 Georgia Medicaid recipients who enroll in Medicaid HMOs do not have any co-payments.256
Georgia now requires adults to make the following copayments for non-emergency services:

doctor/other licensed practitioner visits

$ 2.00

health clinic visits

, $ 2.00

hospital outpatient care (walk-in) $ 3.00

inpatient hospital (each admission) $12.50

surgery

$ 3.00

home health visits ,

$ 3.00

durable medical equipment

$ 3.00

orthotics and prosthetics

$ 3.00

supplies and equipment ren~l $ 1.00

prescription drugs

$ .50257

Additionally, nursing home patients and individuals receiving home and community-based services instead of nursing home care must pay a share of the cost of care.258 For details on the patient's share of cost for these two services, see the next two sections.

What do Medicaid nursing home patients have to pay towards the cost of their care?
Because nursing homes provide room and board as well as medical care, Medicaid recipients with incomes above protected amounts are required to contribute to the cost of their nursing home care. The recipient's share of the cost is determined by subtracting the following amounts from his or her net income (after mandatory federal and state withholdings for FICA taxes, etc.):

53

$30 personal needs allowance for personal

items like clothing and haircuts not covered by Medicaid. 259

.Up to $2049 per month if the patient has a

spouse living in the community.260 This money

is to support the living expenses of the at-home

spouse. The exact amount of the community

spouse maintenance allowance is computed by

subtracting the after tax income of the community

spouse from the maximum allowance allowed, .

$2049 in 1999. If the spouse is living in a nursing

home, no community spouse maintenance allow-

ance is allowed.

Up to $1.327 per month to support a

dependent family member-child, parent, sibling

or half-sibling-living in the community.261 To be

dependent, the family member must have been

claimed on the most recent federal income tax

return or have income at or below the 551 benefit

rate, $500 for one person in 1999. The amount of

the dependent family member allowance is deter-

mined by subtracting the dependent's after tax

income from the maximum dependent allowance,

$1327 in 1998.

Medical expenses that Medicaid or another

third party will not pay including health insurance

premiums, Medicaid co-payments, and services not covered by Medicaid.262 The medical costs

must be incurred. They do no have to actually be

paid.

,

If a person receiving Medicaid nursing home

care has any income remaining after these deduc-

tions, that amount is the patient's share of the cost

of care and must be paid to the nursing home.

What do people receiving Medicaid home and community based services have to pay for their care?
Medicaid recipients receiving home and commu-
nity based services under the Independent care Waiver (ICWP); the Community Care Services Program (CCSP) and Model Waiver may have to contribute a portion of their income towards the cost of their care. No cost sharing is required of those in the Mental Retardation Waiver Program (MRWP).
To determine if a home and community based care recipient must contribute to the cost of care, subtract the follOWing amounts from his or her net income (after mandatory federal and state withholdings for FICA, taxes, etc.).263 These
deductions from income are similar to those used to compute nursing home cost sharing.

Personal care needs allowance. For the

0 CCSP and Model Waiver the personal care allow-
ance is the SSI benefit leveI.264 In 1999, $500 for

one person. For the ICWP, the personal care needs

allowance is $2049 in 1999, the same amount as

the living allowance for spouses of nursing home

residents.265

.

Up to $2049 per month if the patient has a

spouse living in the community.266 This money

is to support the living expenses of the at-home

spouse. The exact amount of the community

spouse maintenance allowance is computed by

subtracting the after tax income of the community

spouse from the maximum allowed, $2049 in

1999. If the spouse is living in a nursing home, no

.community spouse maintenance allowance is .

allowed.

Up to $1,327 per month to support a

dependent family member-child, parent, sibling

or half-sibling-living in the community.267 To be

dependent, the family member must be claimed on

the most recent federal .income tax return or have

income at or below the SSt benefit rate, $500 for

one person in 1999. The amount of the dependent

family member allowance is determined by sub-

0 tracting the dependent's after tax income from the
maximum dependent allowance, $1327 in 1998.

Medical expenses that Medicaid or another

third party will not pay including health insurance

premiums, Medicaid co-payments, and services not covered by Medicaid.268 The medical costs

must be incurred. They do no have to actually be

paid.

CCSP and ICWP participants must contribute

any remaining income towards the cost of their

waiver services. Participants in the Model Waiver

with excess income may have to contribute a

share of cost. A Medicaid consultant determines

the exact contribution amount for Model Waiver recipients.269

WlII Medicaid pay for transportation to and from medical care?
Medicaid pays for transportation to and from any Medicaid-covered services for recipients who need it.27o The only time the state is not reqUired to provide transportation is when someone has an appropriate. reliable means of transportation
0 available at no cost.271 nansportation is available
for doctor and clinic visits, tripslo the pharmacy, dialysis appointments, radiation and chemotherapy treatments, mental health visits, emergency room trips, and any other care covered by Medicaid. Modes of transportation include mini-

54



bus, wheelchair van, stretcher vans, and voucners for public transponatiort.272

For emergency transportation, Medicaid recipi-

ents, like others, call 9111. For non-emergency

transportation, Medicaid recipients must caU the

Medicaid Non-emergendyTransportation Broker (NET) that serves his o~ her county.273 For service

areas and phone numbers, see page 69 in the

Gtraunidsep.oTrthaetitornantshpeomrstealtvid~sn,bbroukt earrsradnogenoitt

provide for the

recipient. The brokers dn be caUed Monday

through Friday from 6:0p a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and

Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. to schedule a

ride.

I"

Requests for transportation must be made 48

hours prior to routine aplpointments.274 For ex-

ample. if an appointment is on Friday, call the broker on or before Thes~ay of the same week to

arrange for transportatioh. For urgent care or same

day appointments, caU the broker as soon as

,

I

possible. Recipients must be read)' to board the

transportation within 15\minutes of p~ckup.

If a transportation problem arises, request a fair

"hearing.

Does Medicaid require prior approval before medical services are pr6vided?
Prior authorization is tequired before many nonemergency medical servides are performed.275 Prior authorization programs ~re supposed to ensure that only medically necessarylservices are reimbursed. Emergency care, office visits, and most prescription drugs do not need prior a6thorization. The prior
I " authorization 'may not extessively delay the deliv-
ery of services.276" The doctor, not the patient. must get the authori-
zation. If the state denie~ prior authorization, the patient must be notified irt writing and can appeal the deniaJ.277 Recipients ican also appeal excessive delays in the approval pr9cess.278 The provider can also appeal denials of prior authorization.279



May Medicaid refuse to lpprove medical care a I
treating physician says is medically necessary? Medicaid only covers sJrvices that are medically
necessary.28O Sometimes I~he Medicaid program refuses to approve or pay for care because they believe the service, although covered, is not medi. cally necessary for the indIvidual's condition. When this happens, a recibient and/or the provider can request a fair hearing to contest the denial of services.281 Generally. thJ state cannot arbitrarily refuse to follow the treating physician'S treatment recommendation. 282

Maya Medicaid recipient choose his or her

owndocto~

-

All Medicaid recipients have the right to choose their primary care physician.283 Many

recipients also have the right to select which

specialists they wish to see.

Medicaid recipients not enrolled in Georgia

Better Health care (GBHC) or an HMO may use

any physician, primary care provider or specialist

who accepts Medicaid. Individuals enrolled in

Georgia Better Health care (GBHC) , a primary

care case management program, or an HMO have

the right to choose their own primary care

physicians from among those participating in

GBHC or the HMO. When someone fails to select

a primary care physician one is assigned. Recipi-

ents who are unhappy with the primary care

doctor they select or the one assigned to them

may change primary care physicians at any time for any reaSon.284

GBHC and HMO enrolles may select a general

practitioner, family practitioner, pediatrician,

general internist, or gynecologist, nurse practitio-

ner or physician assistant as their primary care physiciari.285 Enrollees with chronic health

conditions whose care is managed by a specialist

may use their specialist as the designated pri-

mary care physician as long as the specialist is

willing to agree to provide the primary care and

referral services required of GBHC and HMO primary care physicians.286

GBHC participants may see any specialist they

wish who accepts Medicaid payment. However,

for most services enrollees need a referral from their primary care physician.287 A referral is not

needed for emergency services, mental health

services, pregnancy services, family planning and dental services.288

HMO enrollees must use specialists who

participate in the HMO.289 The HMO should

have list of participating physicians.

Most Georgia Medicaid recipients are required

. to enroU in either GBHC or an HMO. GBHC or an

HMO is mandatory for all Medicaid recipients

except for those residing in nursing homes,

personal care homes, mental health hospitals and other institutions.290 Right from the Start

pregnant women and other short-term recipients

are also excluded. Recipients who have profound

medical problems who are being cared for in

anothercase management program may be '

exempted from GBHC. Recipients covered by both

Medicare and Medicaid may, but are not required, to enroll. 291

55

How does someone find a doctor or dentist who accepts Medicaid?
Many private physicians and dentists do not accept Medicaid.292 For help in finding one that does. call the local OFACS office (see pages 65-68 of this Guide).
Medicaid recipients enrolled in Georgia Better Health Care or an HMO will have a primary care doctor listed on the back of their Medicaid care. This doctor can refer them to other physicians and dentists who accept Medicaid.
What is Georgia Better Health care? -Georgia Better Health Care is a primary care
case management program in which Medicaid recipients are matched with a primary care physician or primary care provider'like nurse practitioner or physician's assistant (PCP) .293 The primary care provider is paid a $3 monthly case management fee to coordinate the recipient's health care services. .
Generally. Medicaid recipients enrolled in GBHC must obtain all primary care from his or her primary care physician. Some specialist services' must have a referral from the GBHC primary care physician. Emergency services. mental health' services. immunizations. pregnancy services, family planning and dental services, among others. do not need a referral. For these services, GBHe enrollees may see any physician or other licensed practitioner who accepts Medicaid.294
GBHC participants receive a lime green Medicaid card. Their primary care physician's name, phone number and address are listed on the back.
GBHC is mandatory for all Medicaid recipients except for those residing in nursing homes, personal care homes, mental health hospitals and other institutions. Right from the Start eligible pregnant women and other short-term Medicaid recipients are also excluded. Recipients who have profound medical problems .who are being cared for in another case management program may also be exempted from GBHC. Recipients covered by both Medicare and Medicaid may, but are not reqUired. to enroll in GBHC or an HMO.295
In Atlanta. Macon. August and Savannah recipients have the option of GBHC or an HMO.296 HMO enrollees do not have to pay co-payments required of other Medicaid recipients.297 Recipients who select the HMO option must obtain all care through the HMO. The state pays the HMO a set rate per person each month whether or not any care is provided.29B HMO enrollees receive a tan Medicaid card. Recipients who fail to choose

between the HMO and GBHe are assigned to

GBHC.299 For help with GBHC enrollment, changing

0

primary care physician, or more information on

GBHC, call 1-800-246-2757 or (404) 657-8299,

. the GBHC Membership Services phone line.

What pharmacy maya Medicaid recipient use?

Medicaid recipients may use any pharmacy that

accepts Medicaid payment.300 However, a Medic-

aid recipient may use only one pharmacy during

any month. The person may change pharmacies

the next month, but must stay with the same pharmacy for one full month.30t This policy

allows the pharmacy to keep track of the number

of prescriptions each individual has.

Georgia Medicaid generally limits prescription

drugs to five per month for adults and six per month for children.302 However, the pharmacist is

allowed to override this limit when necessary (as

when antibiotics are needed), or when the physi-

cian indicates the drug is medically necessary and

the pharmacist determines that the drug is not

duplicative of one the patient is already taking and it is not contra-indlcated.303

Maya doctor or hospital blll a recipient for a

0

service that Medicaid refuses to pay?

Providers may not bill patients for services

covered by Medicaid except for the allowed copayment amounts.304 Sometimes, however, a

provider improperly tries to collect from a Medicaid

patient when Medicaid refuses to pay the provider

because the provider failed to request prior ap-
proval for a service. failed to timely submit a claim

for Medicaid payment, or the service was deter-

mined to be not medically necessary. Providers

may not bill or collect payment from recipients in these situations.305

When a person receives a bill from a provider

they think Medicaid should have paid, they should

. call 1-800-282-4536 and notify Medicaid of the

problem. While a phone call should be sufficient, it

may also help to send a letter to wayne Blank,

Director of Legal Services of the Department of

Medical Assistance, 2 Peachtree Street, NW,

Atlanta, GA 30303.

The state will investigate and notify the person

0 within thirty days of the result. If the bill is
improper, the state will notify the provider to cease

billing. If the state determines the bill was proper, .

.

the Medicaid recipient has a right to request a fair

hearing. 306

56



How long does the provider have to bill

Medicaid?

I

Generally, Medicaid providers must submit I
claims within six (6) months of the month of

service.307 Extensions of this deadline are permit-

ted for a variety of teasons including when a .

applicant is granted \retroaetive Medicaid eligibility after the services are rendered.308
I
Will Medicaid pay for services provided in
another state? I . Georgia's Medicaitl program pays for services

furnished outside thb state when:

.. . I' a recipient IS outslde the state, a med'leaI
emergency exists, th~ serVices are necessary and

the recipient's healthl would be endangered if he or

she had to travel back to Georgia to g~t treatment;

the services are tnore readily available in

another state; or I

.

it is the general practice for recipients in a locality to use servic~ in another state.309

What happens if soieone has private insurance or Medicare in Iaddition' to Medicaid?
Medicaid is the paYrer of last resort. This means
that providers must first seek payment from
private insurance or Medicare, and then bill Medicaid only if the ~ird party pays less than what Medicaid would pay.310
Because Medicaid ~ the payer of last resort. the state must seek reimbursement from insurers or
I
other third parties liable for the costs of medical
care paid for by Medidud.3 11 This is the reason Medicaid recipients m~st assign their right to any insurance or other thitd party payments to the state when they apply !for Medicaid.312

What should someonb do if Medicaid refuses to

pay for care?

I

Medicaid recipients can appeal:

ap~roval denials of prior

for services,

denials of application for nursing home and

community based sehrices"

decisions refusing to pay for services already

provided. and

I

'

delays in providing; services.J 13

~ritten Medicaid will send a

notice stating that

the claim is denied and that there is a right to appeal that decision.3141 The written notice must

include a statement of the reasons for the action

and the specific regulatlt:ms that support the

action.315 The time limit for filing an appeal is

thirty days.

'

A Quick and Easy Method of Screening for Medicaid Eligibility Under the Pickle Amendment
Gordon Bonnyman
Managing Attorney, Thnnessee Justice center

Screening for Medicaid eligibility under the Pickle amendment is quick and simple. The screening process does not reqUire mathematical calculations and eliminates the majority of those who are ineligible. For those who survive the initial screening and for whom mathematical calculations are reqUired, the table below shows a simple formula for performing the necessary calculations.
The screening sequence: Step 1: Ask. "Are you now receiving a social security check?" If the answer is no, the person is not Pickle eligible. If yes, go to step 2. Step 2: Ask...After April 1977, has there 'ever been a month in which you were eligible for and received both a social security check and an SSI check?" If the answer is no, the person is not Pickle eligible. If the answer is yes, go to step 3. Step 3: Ask. "What is the last month in which you were eligible for. and received. both social . security and SSI?
Step 4: Look up the month in which the person last received both social security and 551 in the .
following table. Find the percentage that applies to that month. '
Multiply the present amount of the person's (and/or spouse's) social security benefits by the applicable percentage.
Step 5: You have just calculated the countable social security income under the Pickle amendment Add the figure that you have just calculated to any other countable income the person has. If the total is less than the current SSI income criteria - $500 for an individual and $751 for a couple in 1999 - .the person is Pickle income eligible for Medicaid benefits. The person must still satisfy separate Medicaid resource and nonfinancial requirements.

If 551 terminated

Multiply 1999 social

during

security income by

January 1998 - December 1998

987

January 1997 - December 1997

966

January 1996 - December 1996 :

940

January 1995 - December 1995

916

57

January 1994 - December 1994

January 1993 - December 1993

January 1992 - December 1992

January 1991 - December 1991

January 1990 - December 1990

January 1989 - December 1989

January 1988 - December 1988

January 1987 - December 1987

January 1986 - December 1986

January 1985 - December 1985

January 1984 - December 1984

July 1982 - December 1983

July 1981 - June 1982

July 1980 - June 1981

July 1979 - J~ne 1980

July 1978 - June 1979

July 1977 - June 1978

May orJune 1977

:~

,

891

868

843

812

771

736

708 .

679

671

651

629

607

566

508

.445

~ .405

380

:359

Because of rounding procedures in the computation of Social'Security benefits, the screening calculation will give you an approximate" rather than exact. figure. Because a discrepancy of one cent may mean the difference between Medicaid eligibility as a Pickle Ce and no meaningful access to health care. legal workers should obtain exact information from the Sodal Security Administration in cases where the approximate figure produced by the screening method results in a determination that the client is over the eligibility limit by a small amount (I.e., $20 or less).

FOOTNOTES
1 See. e.g., Atkins v. Rivera. 417 U.S. 154, 156-57
~1986).
Act of April 19, 1999 to aeate Deparbnent of Community Health, to be codified at Act No. 268(S.B. 241) O.C.G.A, 31-5A-4. O.C.G.A. 49-4-14, found at www.ganetorgservicesllegl. 3 JANE PERKINS. MIClfELE MELDEN, AND MARK REGAN, AN ADVOCATE'S GUIDE TO nfE MEDICAID PRoGRAM (1993). A 1999 edition is due out soon. It can be ordered from National Health Law Program. 2639 South La Cienega Boulevard, Los Angeles. CA 90034, (310) 204-6010. 4 42 U.S.C. 1396u-l; Economic Support Services ~ESS) County Letter No. 98-4.
ESS County Letter No. 98-4. 6 ESS COunty Letter No. 98-4. 7 ESS County Letter No. 98-4. 8 42 U.S.C. 1396a (a)(10)(A): 42 C.F.R. 435.145: ESS Manual, 804-1: id. at 805-1 (MT 3- 3/93). 9 42 U.S.C. 1396a (a)(10)(A)(i)(V); 42 C.F.R. 435.119; ESS County Letter No. 98-4. 10 42 U.S.C. 1396a (a)(10)(A)(i): 42 C.ER. 435.119; ESS County Letter No. 98-4. For example, under TANF rules a legal guardian qualifies as a

relative.

11 42 U.S.C. 1396a (a)(10)(A)(i)M; 42 C.F.R.

435.119; ESS County Letter No. 98-4. 12 42 U.S.C. 1396a(e)(5); 42 C.F.R. 35.170; ESS

Manual. 821-1 (MT 5-2/94). 13 42 U.S.C. 1396a(e)(5); 42 C.F.R. 435.117; ESS

Manual, 815-1 (MT 3-3/93).

14 ESS Manual. 820-1 (MT 5-2/94). 15 42 U.S.C. 1396a (a)(10)(A)(i)(1lI): 42 C.F.R.

435.201; ESS Manual, .822-1 (MT 5-2/95).

16 ESS Manual, 820-1 (MT 5-2/94). 17 42 U.S.C. 1396a (a)(10)(A)(i)(I); 42 C.F.R.

435.201: State ABO Manual. 252-1 (MT 1 - 8/92). 18 42 U.S.C. 1396a(m)(I): 42 C.F.R. 435.530; id.

435.540; State ABO Manual. 805-1 (MT 18-9/97). 19 42 U.S.C. 1382(a)(I)(A); 42 C.F.R. 435.520:

State ABO Manual, 805-1 (MT 18-9/97). 20 42 U.S.C. 1382c(a)(2); 20 C.F.R. 416.981; State

ABO Manual. B-3 (MT 1-3/93). 21 42 U.S.C. 1382c(a)(3)(A); 20 C.F.R. 416.905;

State ABO Manual, B-6 (MT 1-3/93). .

2242 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(10)(A)(i)(II); 42 C.F.R.

435.120; State ABO Manual. 611-1 (MT 17 - 8/97).

23 Recipients of Social Security old age benefits qualify

automatically for Medicare. Social security Disability

(SSm) recipients qualify for Medicare after a two year
waiting peri~~ Many ssm recipients need Medicaid

during the two year waiting period when they are

ineligible for Medicare. Social security recipients with

Medicare also need Medicaid to pay for prescription

drugs which are not covered by Medicare, and to pay

the~ubstantial premiums, deduCb'bles, and co-payments

rt:<Juired by Medicare. 24 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(10)(A)(i)(II); State ABO

Manual. 616-1 (MT 20-1198). 25 42 U.S.C. 1396a(1)(2); id. 1396a(m)(2); 42 C.F.R.

435;600; State ABO Manual, 252-1 (MT 1-8/92). 26 42 C.F.R. 435.945(b); State ABO Manual, 405-1

~MT 5-2/94).

.

71n determining the number of family members. an

unborn child is counted as a family member. If twins

are verified. they munt as two people.

28 Social security benefits are updated each January

with cost of living adjustments. The federal poverty

~idelines are updated each February.

9 Many of the income limits are tied to the federal

poverty guidelines. The 1999 guidelines are included in

the Resource Directory.

.

30 The net income limit is derived from the old Aid to

Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) Program's

standard of need amount. ESS County Letter No; 98~.

31 ESS Manual. 1201-1 (MT 3-3/93).

32 42 U.S.C. 1396a(l) (2) (A); 42 C.F.R. 435.116; ESS

Manual, 821-1 (MT 5-2/94).

3342 U.S.C. 1396a(e)(2)(A)(i); 42 C.F.R. 435.116;

ESS Manual. 821-1 (MT 5-2/94).

'

34 42 U.S.C. 1396a(e)(5); 42 C.F.R. 435.170; ESS

Manual. 821-1 (MT 5-2/94).

.

35 42 U.S.C. 1396a(e)(5); 42 C.F.R. 435.117; ESS

Manual, 815-1 (MT 3 -3//93).

36ESS Manual. 860-1 (MT 24-7/96).

.

37 42 U.S.C. 1382b(d); 20 C.F.R. 416.1231: State

ABD Manual, 1210-7 (MT 1-3/93). 38 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(10)(A)(i)(I1); 42 C.F.R.

435:120; State ABO Manual. 611-1 (MT 17 - 8/97). 39 42 C.ER. 435.909; State ABO Manual, 611-1 (MT

o
o
o

58



17-6/97). 40 42 C.F.R. 435.122 id. 436.111; State ABO

Manual. 2252-1 (MT 1-8/9i).

.

41 42 C.ER. 435.522; id. 435.531id. 435.541;

State ABO Manual, 805-1 to 805-7 (MT 18- 9197). 42 42 U.S.C. 1396b(t)(4)~C); 42 C.F.R. 435.236; id.

435.1005; State ABO Maqual. A-21 (MT 21-3/98). 43 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(10HA)(ii)(V); 42 C.F.R.

435.236; State ABO Manua\' 641-1 (MT 1 - 3/93); Id. at
8351-1 (MT 7 - 9/94). I

4442 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(10)(A)(ii)(V); 42 C.F.R.

435.914: State ABO Manua\' 641-1 MT 1 - 3/93).

45 State ABO Manua\' B-12!(MT 5-5/94).

46 Community Care Services Program: 42 U.S.C.

1396a(a)(10)(A)(ii)(IV); idJ 1396n(c); 42 C.F.R.
435.217; State ABO Manuall, 631-1 (MT 6-8/94).

Independent Care Waiver Program: State ABO Manual. 639-1 (MT 1-3/93). HOspic~: 42 U.S.C. 1396d(a)(18); id. 1396a(~)(10)(VI); id.

1396a(a){a)(10)(A)(ii)(VII)l State ABO Manual, 635-1

(MT 13-5/96).

\.

47 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(10)(c)(i) id. 1396a(a)(17);

42 C.F.R. 435.301; State ABO Manual. 650- 1 (MT 13-

5/96).

I

48 20 C.F.R. 416.1104; id. 416.1121, State ABO

Manual, 1405-1 (MT 7-9/94i).
I 49 42 C.ER. 435.601; ESS Manual, 1210-1 (MT 18-
10/95). 50 42 C.ER. 435.601; ESS ~ariual, 822-1 (MT 5-21

1 94); id. at 1405-1 (MT 5-2/ 4).
51 42 U.S.C. 602(a)(8)(A);; 45 C.F.R. 233.20(11);

ESS M.mual, 1210-8 [01219-10 (MT 18 - 10/95). 52 42 U.S.C. 602(a) (8)(A); 45 C.F.R.

233.20(a)(11 )(0); ESS Manual, 1405-1 '(MT 5-2/94).

53 ESS Manual, 1407-1 (MT!2-11192).

.

54 42 U.S.C; 602a (8)(A)(iii); 45 C.F.R. 233.20

~II);ESS Manual. 1407-7 (M'F 8-7/94).

..

542 U.S.C. 1396a(m): 20Ic.F.R. 416.1124c (12);

State ABO Manual, 1610-1 (MT 1 - 3/93).

'

56 42 U.S.C. 1396a(m); 20Ic.F.R. 416.1123(c)(12);

State ABO Manual, 1610-2 (MT 1 - 3/93). 57 42 U.S.C. 1396a(m); 20I p-F.R. 41' 6.1121(b); State

ABO Manual. 1405.:.4 (MT 1 i 3/93).

58 State ABO Manua\' 1405-4 (MT 1 - 3/93). 59 42 U.S.C. 1382a; 20 C.F.R. 416.1201; ESS Manual. 1206-1 to 1206-10 ~MT 5 - 2/94 &MT 7-5/94

, & MT 16 - 6/95).

1

60 42 U.S.c. 1382a; 20 C.F.~. 416.1201a(l) id.

416.1245b; ESS Manua\' 120~-3 (MT 5 - 2/94). 61 42 U.S.C. 1382b(a); 20 q.F.R. 416.1210; ESS

Manua\' 1208-3(MT 5- 2 19~).

.

lOt- 62 42 U.S.C. 1382b(a); 20 C.F.R. 416.1210(t); State

ABO Manual. 1210-6 (MT 5/95).

.

f 63 42 U.s:C. 1382b(a); 45 O.ER. 2333.20(a)(3)(2);
ESS Manual, 1207-3 (MT 23 2/96).

64 42 U.S.C. 1382b(a); 45 CiER. 233.20(a)(3)(4);

ESS Manual, 1206-? (MT 5 - 194). 65 42 U.S.C. 1382(d)(2); 20!C.F.R. 416.1230(a);

State ABO Manual, 1210-7 (MT 1 - 3/93).

6642 U.S.C. 1382b(d)(I): 20 C.F.R.

I. 416.1231 (b)(I); State ABO Mhnual, 1210-7 (MT 1 - 31
93).
67 42 u.s.c. 1382b(d) (1): 20 C.F.R.

416.1231(b)(I): State ABO M.1lOual, 1210-7 (MT 1 - 31

93).

I

68 42 U.S.c. 1382b (d)(3): 20 C.F.R.

416.1231(b)(1); State ABO Manual, 1210-7 (MT 1 - 31

93).

.

69 42 U.S.C. 1396a(k); ESS Manual, 1206-10 (MT 16

- 6/95). 70 42 U.S.C. 1396p(d)(4); ESS Manual, 1206-10 (MT

16 - 6/95). 71 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(11)(B); 42 C.F.R. 435.602;

ESS Manual, 1210-1 (MT 18 - 10/95). 72 42 U.S.C. 1396a(I7)(0); 42 C.F.R. 435.602; ESS

Manual, 605-3 to 605-12(MT 26 - 8/96 & 8/95). 73 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(17); 42 C~F.R; id. 435.602,

435.113; ESS Manual, 605-3 to 605-12 (MT 26 - 8/96

& 8/95); id. 1456-1 (MT 26 - 8/96). 74 42 U.S.C. 1396a(I7)(d); 42 C.F.R. 435.602; ESS

Manual. 605-3 to 605-12 (MT 26 - 8/96 & 8/95). 75 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(10)(A)(i)(II1); 42 C.F.R.

435.116; 45 C.F.R. 233.20(a) (3) (xviii); ESS Manual.

1457-1 (MT 16 - 6/95). . 76 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(10)(C)(iHllI); 42 C.F.R.

435.122. For example. for Medicaid purposes only.

income from a spouse or from the parents of a child

under 21 can be deemed available to an applicant when

it is not actually contributed. This means that a child

ineligible for SSI because stepparent inoome is deemed

available when it is not. is nevertheless eligible for

Medicaid. The same is true for children denied TANF

welfare because the income of a grandparent or sibling

is deemed available to the child even when it is not

actually available.

.

77 8 U.S.C. 1631 (a); ESS Manual. 1485-1 (MT 5 - 2 I

94). 78 8 U.S.C. 1631 (b)(I); ESS Manual. 1485-1 (MT 5-

2/94).

.

.

79 42 U.S.C. 1396a(e)(3); State ABO Manual. 633-1

(MT 15 - 11/96).

.

60 42 U.S.C. 1396a(e)(3HBHiii); State ABO Manual,

633-1 (MT 15 - 11/96).

.

81 42 U.S.C. 1396a(e)(1); id. 1396r-6(b); 42 C.F.R.

435.112; ESS Manual. 832-1 (MT 17 - 6/95); id. at

831-1 (MT 3 - 3/93). 82 42 U.S.C. 1396a(eHl); 42 C.F.R.

435.115(f)(1)(2)(3); ESS Manual. 1631-14 (MT 8 - 7/

94).

83 ESS Manual. 810-15 (MT 19 - 8/95); ESS County

Letter No. 98-4.

84 ESS County Letter No. 98-4.

85 42 U.S.C. 1396(e)(5)-.(6); ESS Manual. 1617-1

(MT 3 - 3/93).

A6 42 U.S.C. q96a(e) (1); 42 C.F.R 435.117(a); ESS

Manual. 822-1 (MT 5 - 2/94); id. at 1617- 1 (MT 3 - 3/

93). 87 42 U.S.C. J396a(e)(I); 42 C.F.R. 435.135(a);

State ABO Manual. 613-1 (MT 1 - 3/93). This group of

eligibles is called "Pickle People" after Rep. Pickle who

sponsored the legislation. Each year the February issue

of Clearinghouse Review has a work sheet for comput-

ing Pickle eligibility calculations.

8842 U.S.C. 1396a(e)(1); 42 C.F.R. 435.135(a);

State ABO Manual. 613-1 (MT 1 - 3/93). 89 42 U.S.C. 1383c(d); id. 1396a(a)(10)(AHi)(U);

42 C.F.R. 435.138; State ABO Manual. 619-1 (MT 1 -

3/93). The beneficiaries are sometimes referred to as

"Kennelly Widows." Assistance Payments Manual, p.

Sa of 111-120.

.

90 42 U.S.c. 1383c(c); 20 C.F.R. 416.260; id.

416.266: State ABO Manual, 615-1 (MT 1 - 3/93).

59

91 42 U.S.C. 1382h(a); id. 1396a,(a)(10)(A)(i)(n);

id. 1396d(a); 20 C.F.R. 416.260- 416.269; 45

C.ER. 435.120. This is called "Qualified Severly

Impaired Individual" Medicaid. This program is not

found in the State ABO Manual because it is adminis-

tered by the Social Security Administration. Interested

individuals should contact the Social Security Adminis-

tration for information.

92 The usual Medicaid rules apply when determining

what counts as resources and income when determining

eligibility for Medicaid nursing home care and commu-

nity based care. 93 42 U.S.C. 1396b(t) (4)(C); 42 C.F.R. 435.236a;

ES5 Manual, 891-1 (MT 5 - 2/94); State ABO Manual,

641-1 (MTI -3/93).

94 Community Care Services Program: 42 U.S.C.

1396a(a)(10)(A)(ii)(IV); id. 1396n(c); 42 C.F.R.

435.217; State ABO Manual, 631-1 (MT 6 - 8/94).

Independent Care Waiver Program: State ABO Manual,

639-1 (MT 15 - 11/96).

95 Hospice: 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(10)(A)(ii)(VI)-(VII);

id. 1396d(a)(x)(18)1 State ABD Manual, 635-1 (MT

13 - 5/96). 96 42 C.F.R. 435.700; State ABD Manual, 1401 (MT

1-3/93); id., Appendix A (MT 1 - 3/93).

97 42 C.F.R. 435.622.

98 State ABO Manual, B-12 (MT 5 - 5/94).

9942 C.F.R. 435.814; State ABO Manual, 1201, (MT

10-5/95),1010, (MT 16 - 5/97) Appendix A (MT 1 - 31 93). ' ,

100 42 U.S.C. 1396p(c)(2)(B)(i)-(ii); id.

1396p(c)(2)(C) (ii); State ABO Manual, 1010 (MT 16-

5/97).

101 42 U.S.C. 1396p(c)(2)(B)(i)-(ii); id.

1396p(c)(2)(C) (ii). 102 42 U.S.C. 1396p(c)(I)(C)(i); State ABO Manual,

1299-1 (MT 12 - 12/95). 103 42 U. S.C. 1396p(c)(I); State ABO Manual, 1299-

1 (MT 12 - 2/95).

.

104 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(18);id. ,1396p(c); State

ABO Manual, 611-1 (MT 17 - 8/97). 105 42 U.S.C. 1396p(c)(2)(A)-(O); State ABO Manual.

1299-2 (MT 12-12/95); id. at 1299-3 (MT 10 - 5/95);

id. 1210-2 (MT 10 - /95). 106 42 U.S.C. 1396p(b)(1 )(A)-(B); 42 C.F.R.

433.36(c).

,

107 OFCS Information Sheet on Georgia's Medicaid

Estate Recovery Program.

108 OFCS 42 U.S.C. 1396p(b)(3); 42 C.F.R. 433.36;

DFCS Information Sheet on Georgia's Medicaid Estate

Recovery Program

'

109 42 U.S.C. 1396n(c)(3); State ABO Manual. 633-1

1MT 15 - 11/96).

j 10 42 U.S.C. 1396a(e)(2)(B); State ABO Manual,

633-1 (MT 15 - 1il96).

11142 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(10)(E); id. 1396d(p)(I);

State ABO Manual, 643-1

112 42 U.S.C. 1396d(p)(I)(C).

'

113 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(10)(E)(i); id. 1396d(p)(I).

114 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)10(E)(iii).

115 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(10)(E)(iv)(I).

116 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(10)(E)(iv)(1I).

117 42 U.S.C 1396a(10)(E)(iv).

118 42 U.S.c. 1396d (a).

.

119 42 U.S.C. 1396d(s); id. 395i-2a; State ABO

Manual. 647-1(MT 1 - 3/93).'

120 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(10)(C); id. 1396a(a) (17); State ABO Manual, 650-1 (MT 13 - 5/96). 121 42 C.F.R. 435.831(c); State ABD Manual, 650-1

0

(MT 3 - 5/96). The Medically Needy income level is tied

to the old AFOC payment level. A state may not set the

mediCally needy income level higher than 133% of the

old AFOC payment level. 122 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(10)(C)(ii); 42 C.F.R. 435

Subpart 0; ESS Manual. 860-1 (MT 24 - 7/96)(chil-

dren); ESS Manual. MT 5- 2/94); 821-1; id. at 855-1;

id. at 860-1 pregnant women); State ABD Manual,

650-1 (MT 13 - 5/96) (elderly and disabled).

123 42 C.F.R. 435.831 (b); ESS Manual, 860-10 (MT

24 - 7/96); State ABO Manual, 650-9 (MT 16 - 5/97). 124 42 C.F.R. 435.831 (e)(I); ESS Manual. 860-10

(MT 24 - 7/96); State ABO Manual. 650-9 (MT 16 - 5/

97). 125 42 C.F.R. 435.121 (t)(iii); id. 435.831 (b)(I)-(2);

ESS Manual, 860-11 (MT 3 - 3/93); State ABD Manual,

650-3 (MT 18 - 9/97). ' 126 42 C.F.R. 435.121 (t)(iii); id. 435.831 (b)(I)-

(2); ESS Manual, 860-11 (MT 3 - 3/93); State ABD

Manual. 860-11 (MT 13 - 5/96).

127 ESS Manual. 860-2 (MT 24 - 7/96); State ABO

Manual. 650-1 (MT 13 - 5/96). 128 42 C.F.R. 435.831 (t) (2)- (3). 129 42 C.F.R. 435.601; ESS Manual. 1210-1 (MT 18-

10/95).

.

130 State ABD Manual. 651-1 (MT 16 - 5/97).

131 42 C.F.R. 435.403; State ABD Manual, 825-1 (MT

16 - 5/97).

.

. 132 42 U.S.C. 1396a(b)(2); 42 C.F.R. 435.401 (a); id.

0

435.403; ESS Manual. 401-1 (MT 11 - 11194). 133 42 U.S.C. 1396a(b)(3); 42 C.F.R. 435.406(a)(I);

ESS Manual. 1015-1 (MTI8 - 10/95); State ABD

Manual. 815-1 (MT 19 - 1/98). 134 8 U.S.C. 1255a; 42 U.S.C. 1396b(v); 42 C.F.R.

435.139; id. 435.350; ESS Manual, 866-1 (MT 16-

6/95).

135 8U.S.C, 1613(a).

136 Federallaw prohibits a federal match for Medicaid

services for most immigrants admitted to the U.S. on or

after August 22. 1996 during their first five years of

residence in this counay. Federal law gives states

discretion whether to provide fuD Medicaid to immi-

grants who entered the U.S. prior to August 22, 1996 or

who entered after that date. but who have completed the

federal five year ban. 8 U.S.C. 1613. Georgia provides

Medicaid to aD immigrants permitted under federal law.

State ABD Manual. 815-2 (MT 19 ~ 1198). , 137 8 U.S.C. 1359; State ABO Manual. 815-7 (MT 19-

1198).'

,

138 8 U.S.C. 1641 (c); State ABO Manual, 815-5 (MT

19 - 1/98). 139 8 U.S.C. 1612(a)(2)(A)(i)(IV). State ABD

Manual. 815-5 (MT 19 - 1/98).

1408 U.S.C. 1612(a)(2)(A)(i)(V)(c). "An Amerasian

immigrant is an alien admitted to the U.S. pursuant to

section 584 of the Foreign Operations. Export Financ-

0 ing, and Related Poregrams Appropriations Act. 1988." .I
Id.
141 ESS Manual, 866-1 (MT 16-6/95); State ABD

Manual. 410-1 (MT 3 - 3/93).

142 State ABO Manual, 815-7 (MT 19 - 1198). 143 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(10)(A)(i)(V);42 C.F.R.

435.119; ESS County Letter No. 98-4.

60



144 ESS County Letter No. 98-4.

145 ESS COunty Letter No. 98-4.

.0

146 42 U.S.C. 1396a (h); 42 C.F.R. 433.148 id.

435.110; ESS Manual, 1001-1 (MT 4 - 1/94) (children

do not lose Medicaid for parents failure to cooperate in
establishing paternity). I
147 42 U.S.C. 1396a(h).

148 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a) (34); id. 1396d(a); 42

C.F.R. 435.914; ESS Mariual, 865 (MT 3 - 3/93); State

ABD Manual, 415 (MT 1718/98). 149 42 U.S.C. 1396d(a).

150 State ABD Manual, 4011-4 (MT 1 - 3/93). Federal regulations mandate that ~pplication processing time not exceed 90 days for tho~e alleging disability and 45

days for all other applicait6ns. 42 C.F.R. 435.911.

151 Economic Support SerVices Policy Manual, 1810-2

(MT 3 - 3/93).

I

152 42 U.S.C. 1396d(a)(xi)(5); 42 C.F.R. 440.50;

Department of Medical ASS,istance Provider Manual Part

II, Physician services 991-905. 0 153 42 U.S.C. 1396d(a)(xi)(21); 42 C.F.R. 440.166;

. DMA Provider Manual Part II, Advanced Nurse Practi-

tioner Services 901-90~.

154 42 U.S.C. 1396d(a)(xi)(17); 42 C.F.R. 440.165;

DMA Provider Manual Par~ II, Nurse - MidWifery

Services 901-905.

I

155 42 U.S.C. 1396d(a)(xi) (6),42 C.F.R.

440.60(a); DMA Provider Manual Part II, Physician

Services 90.3.

I

156 42 C.ER. 440.60; DMA Provider Manual Part n,



Podiatry services 901-9p4.

0

157 42 C.F.R. 440.60; D~ Provider Manual Part n,

Vision Care Services 901-902.

158 42 U.S.C. 1396d (a) ('(i) (2) i 42 C.F.R. 440.20;

DMA Provider Manual PartlII, Rural Health Clinic

Services, 901-907; Services 901-907.

id.,

CIommunity

Health

center

00



159 42 U.S.C. 1396d(a)(xi)(1)-(2); 42 C.F.R.

440.10 and 440.20; DMA Pl-ovider Manual Part II, Hospital Services 901-9 ~ 1. 1642 U.S.C. 1396d(a)(X~)(12); 42 C.F.R. 440.120;

DMA Provider Manual Part II, Pharmacy services

901-908. 0

I

161 42 U.S.C. 1396d(a)(xi)(3); 42 C.ER. 440.30;

DMA Provider Manual Part II, Hospital services

904.2; DMA Provider Manual Part 11, Independent

Laboratory Services 901t904. 162 42 U.S.C. 1396d (a) (4) (B); 42 C.F.R. '.

440.40(b); id 441.50-441[62; DMA Provider Manual
Part n, Health Check servicds 901-909.
163 42 U.S.C. 1396d(a)(xi)(4)(C); 42 C.F.R

440.40(c); DMA Provider Manual Part II, Family

Planning Services, 901-903.

0

164 42 U.S.C 1396d(a)(xd,(7); 42 C.ER. 440.70;

DMA Provider Manual Part H, Home Health Services

901-906.

I

.

165 42 U.S.C. 1396d(a)(xiH14) and (16); 42 C.F.R.

440.140 (institution for mental disease); id. 440.160

(inpatient psychiatric servia! for individuals under 21);

DMA Provider Manual part II, Community Mental o Health Services 901-905;1 ido, Psychological Services 901-908. 166 "No service (including cQunseling) shall be excluded from the definition ofl'medical assistance solely

because it is provided as a treatment service for

alcoholism or drug dependedcy." 42 U.S.C. 1396d(a).

Drug treatment is covered under inpatie~t and outpatient services, clinic services, rehabilitation services, and
EPSDT. See DMA Provider Manual Part II, Community Mental Health Services 901-905. (Check with Kim). 167 42 U.S.C. 1396d(a)(xi)(12); 42 C.ER. 440.120; DMA Provider Manual Part II, Orthotics and Prosthetics 901-905.
168 42 C.F.R. 440.70; DMA Provider Manual Part n,
Durable Medical Equipment Services 901- 905. 169 42 U.S.C. 1396d(a)(xi)(4) (21 or older); id. 1396d(a)(xi)(14)(65 or older); 42 C.ER. 440.40 (21 or older); id. 42 C.ER. 440.140 (65 or older); id. 440.155 (otherthan for mental diseases); DMA Provider Manual Part II, Nursing Facility Services 901-909. 17042 U.S.C. 1396d(a)(xi)(15); 42 c.F.R. 440.150; DMA Provider Manual Part 11, Nursing Facility Services 901-909. 171 42 U.S.C. 1396d(a)(xi)(10); 42 C.F.R. 440.100;
o
DMA Provider Manual Part II, Dental Services 901907. 172 42 U.S.C. 1396d(a)(xi)(12); 42 C.F.R. 440.60; . id. 440.120; DMA Provider Manual Part II, Vision care Services 901-904. 173 42 U.S.C. 1396d(a)(xi)(22); 42 C.ER. 440.180; DMA Provider Manual Part II, Community care Services 600; id. 901-902. 174 42 U.S.C. 1396d(a)(xi)(18); DMA Provider Manual Part 11, Hospice Services 901-902. 175 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(4); 42 C.F.R. 431.53; DMA
Provider Manual Part n, Non-Emergency 1tansportation
Services 601; id. 901-905, 176 Part of the Policies and Procedures are the Provider Manuals. They include eight volumes. The manuals are available at the DMA State Library in Atlanta, at offices of Atlanta Legal Aid and Georgia Legal Services, and in the Mercer Law Library. 177 Certain medical services are mandatory and every state's Medicaid program must pay for them. These services are listed at 42 U.S.C. 1396d(a)(xi)(I)-(24). They are defined in detail at 42 C.F.R. pt. 440. Other services are optional and the state has the discretion whether to cover this care. Optional services are defined o at 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(22) and defined in detail at 42 C.F.R. pt. 440. 178 42 U.S.C. 1396d(r); 42 C.F.R. 441.56. 179 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(10) and (43); id. 1396d(a)(94)(B); id. 1396d(r); 42 C.F.R. 441.56
~~b4(2c)U. .S.C. 1396d(r),. 42 C.F.R. 440..130,.t'd.
441.56. 181 42 U.S.C 1396a(a)(43); 42 C.F.R. 441.56(a)(I)-
i~~ DMA Provider Manual Part II, Health Check services,
Introduction. 183 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Health Check services, Introduction. 184 42 U.S.C. 1396d(r); 42 C.F.R. 441.56. 185 42 U.S.C. 1396d(r); 42 C.F.R. 441.56. 186 Mandatory services are listed at 42 U.S.C. 1396d(a)(xi)(1)-24). Optional services are listed at 42 U.S.C. 1396d. Both are defined in detail at 42 C.F.R.
ft8.744420.U.S.C. 1396d(r)(5);see42 C.F.R. 441.57. 188 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(43); id. 1396d(r)(5); 42 C.F.R. 44t.56(c). 189 42 U.S.C. 1396d(r); 42 C.F.R. 441.56. 0

61

190 DMA Provider ~anual Part III, Hearing Services

1403.

191 DMA Provider Manual Part III. Hearing Services

1403.

192 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Podiatry Services

904.

193 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Dental Services

803.

194 DMA Provider Manual Part II. Vision Care 903.

195 Part of the Policies and Procedures are the Provider

Manuals. They include eight volumes. The manuals are

available at the DMA State Library in Atlanta, at offices

of Atlanta Legal Aid and Georgia Legal Services, and in

the Mercer Law Library.

196 Doe v. Chiles. 136 F.3d 709 (11 th Cir. 1998):

197 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Physician Services

804.

.

198 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Home Health Services

803.4.

199 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Pharmacy Services .

903.

200 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Home Health Services

803.4.

201 See the various DMA Provider Manuals for an

eX~lanation of this process.

20 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(3); 42 c.F.R. 431.200; ESS

Manual 2200-2210; (MT 23-2/96).

203 DMA Provider Manual Part 11. Durable Medical

Equipment 9027903. 2<14 See the various DMA Provider Manuals for an

exglanation of this process.

20 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(3); 42 C.F.R. 431.200; ESS

Manual, 2200-2210. MT 23-2/96). 206 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(2); 42 C.F.R. 440.230. 207 See. e.g., Curtis v. Thylor, 625 F.2d 645 (5th Cir.

1980) (Three visit per month limit on physician visits

is reasonable when only 3.9% of Medicaid recipients

required more than three visits in one month and only

.5% required in excess of three visits in more than one

month).

208 Dodson v. Parham. 427 F. Supp. 97 (N.D. Ga.

1977) (invalid drug formulary because prior authoriza-

tion system did not operate on weekends, nights or .

holidays, and did not allow prescribing physicians any

discretion in emergencies); DeSario v. Stevenson, 963 F.

Supp. 120 (D. Conn. 1997); )eneski v. Myers, 163 cal.

AJ'f' 3d 18 (1984), cert. denied, 471 U.S. 1136 (1985).

2 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(17); 42 C.F.R. 440.230(c).

210 White v. Beal, 555 F.2d 1146 (3d Cir. 1977). 211 Weaver v. Reagen, 886 F.2d 194 (8th Cir. 1989).

212 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Orthotics and Pros-

thetics. ,902 (artificial limbs, braces, artificial eyes);

id., Vision Services 901 (glasses).

. 213 DMA Provider Manual Part III, Hearing Services

1403.

214 DMA Provider Manual Part II. 905. 215 42 U.S.C. 1396d(r); 42 C.F.R. 441.56.

216 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Durable MediCal

Eguipment. Appendix D.

217 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Durable Medical

Equipment 90S.'

2[8 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Durable Medical

Equipment 802.6.

.

2[9 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Durable Medical

Equipment 901; id. 903. .

.

22'0 DMA Provider Manual Part II. Durable Medical

Equipment 800.

22'1 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Community Mental

o Health Services 902.
222 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Physician Services 903.20.

223 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Community Mental

Health Services 903.

224 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Community Mental

Health Services 902C.

225 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Community Mental

Health Services 700, id., Psychological Services 700.

226 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Community Mental

Health Services 902C.

227 Georgia refuses to reimburse psychological services

for children in excess of 24 hours per year. DMA

Provider Manual Part II, Psychological Services 800;

id. 902. This absolute prohibition on services that

may be medically necessary for certain children would

seem to violate the federal EPSDT requirements. See 42

U.S.C. 1396d(r); 42 C.F.R. 441.56.

228 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Hospital Services, .

AffendixC.1.

.

2 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Hospital Services

903.14.

.

230 42 U.S.C. 1396d(a)(xi)(1). .

231 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Community Mental

Health Services 903. 232 42 U.S.C. 1396d(a)(xi)(15); 42 C.F.R. 483.400;

DMA Provider Manual Part II, Nursing Facility Services 801-803; id. 901-909. 233 42 U.S.C. 1396n(c); DMA Provider Manual Part II,

Mental Retardation Waiver Program 701. 234 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Mental Retardation Waiver Program 701.

o

235 The waivers are au'thorized by 42 U.S.C.

1396n(c).

..

236 42 U.S.C. 1396n(c)(3); 42 C.F.R. 440.180.

237 42 U.S.C. 1396n(c)(1)-(2); 42 C.F.R 435.217;

id. 440.180.

.'

.

238 42 U.S.C. 1396n(c)(2)(C).

239 42 U.S.C. 1396n(c)(4); 42 C.F.R. 441.305.

240 To increase the number of waiver slots, the state

must also show that the cost of providing community

based services to those in the program is no more than

the cost oflong term institutional care would have been

absent the waiver. The state must also show that there

are sufficient providers available to provide the waiver

services.

241 In addition to the waiver programslisted here,

Georgia also has a Laurens County Head Injury Waiver.

It serves residents of Laurens County who are under 25

years of age and have a disabling head injury. State

ABD Manual, 638-1 (MT 1 - 3/93). Presently, this

waiver is funded to serve three people.

242 DMA Provider Manual Part II. Community Care

Services 600.

.

243 42 U.S.C. 1396n(c); 42 C.F.R. 440.180; DMA

Provider Manual Part II, Mental Retardation Waiver

Program 701.

244 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Mental Retardation. Waiver Program 900.
245 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Waiver Home Care S~ices (Model Waiver) 901-902.

o

246 DMA Provider Manual Part II. Waiver Home Care

Services (Model Waiver) 701.
2~7 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Hospital Ser- '

62



vices 903.3. \[ is unsettled whether the EPSOT

program requires the state tb cover all medically necessary organ transplantsl for children. ~ee. Salgado v. Kirschner. 878 P.2d 659 (1994). cert. dented. 513 U.S.
1
1151 (collecting cases on this issue).

248 OMA provider Manual R1art II. Hospital Services

903.3. 249 OMA Provider Manual R1art II. Family Planning

Services 901. .

250 OMA Provider Manual R1art II. Family Planning

Services 901. . 251 OMA Provider Man ual ~art II. Advance~ Nurse

Practitioner Services. AppenC1ex C. Information of Other

Medicaid Programs. at C-9. 1 252 42 c.F.R. 441.203; OMA Provider Manual Part II.
Hospital Services 91 1.1 . I
25342 C.F.R. 441.253; OMA Provider Manual Part II.
Hospital Services 91 1.2. I
254 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(25); 42 C.F.R. 447.15. OMA

Provider Enrollment Application Package. Statement of

Participation. 11 (u); OMA rfovider Manual Part I,

Policies and Procedures 106.15. 255 42 U.S.C. 13960(e); 42 C.F.R. 447.53.
256 42 U.S.C. 13960(a)(2); id. 13960(b)(2); 42

C.F.R. 447.53.

1

.

257 Flier to Recipients issued by OMA, The Georgia

Better Health Care Plan: Qudstions and Answers for

New Members (1996).

I

258 Co-payments are set forth in the various Provider

Manuals.

I

.

259 42 U.S.C. 1396a(q); 42 C.ER. 435.725; id.

435.726.

I

260 42 U.S.C. 1396a(q); 42 C.ER. 435.725; id.

435.726; State ABO Manuall Appendix A. A- 20 (MT 19

- 1/98).

I

261 42 U.S.C. 1396r-5(d)(ll)(A); 42 C.F.R.

435.725(c)(2); State ABO Manual, Appendix A, A-20

(MT 19 -1/98).

I

262 42 U.S.C. 1396r-5(d)(t1)(C); 42 C.F.R.

435.725(c)(3); State ABO Manual Appendix A, A-20

(MT 19 - 1/98).

I

263 State ABO Manual, 1820-1 (MT 1-9/92).

.

261State ABO Manual 63J-? (MT 6-8/94) (CCSP); id.,

639-3A(MT 15-11/96) 265 State ABO Manual.

6(I3C1WJ2P).(MT

-8/94)(CCSP);

id.,

I ' 640-2 (MT 1-3/93) (Model Waiver); id., Appendix A,
A-22 (MT 21-3/98). 266 State ABO Manual. 639-3A (MT 15-11/96); id.,
1
~frndix A, A-22 (MT 21-1'98).



42 U.S.C. 1396r-5(d)(1)(A); 42 C.F.R.

435.725(c)(2); State ABO Manual. AppendiX A. A-20

~MT 19 - 1198).

I

.

68 42 U.S.C. 1396r-5(d)(1)(C); 42 C.F.R.

435.725 (c)(3); State ABO M~nual AppendiX A, A-20

(l\iT 19 - 1/98).

I

269 State ABO Manual. 1820-1 (MT 1-9/92).

270 State ABO Manual. 640}2 (MT 1-3/93). 271 42 c.F.R. 431.53; 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(4); OMA

Provider Manual Part II. NonlEmergeUry Transportation

Services 901.

.

272 JANE PERKINS. AN ADVOCATE"S GUIDE TO THE MEDICAID

PROGRAM 4.12 n. 40 (1993)1 273 OMA Provider Manual P~rt II. Non Emergency

ltansportation Services 902. 274 OMA Provider Manual P~rt II. Non Emergency

ltansportation Services 800.

275 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Non Emergency

ltansportation Services 801. 276 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(30); 42 C.F.R. ' 440.230(d);

DMA Provider Manual Part I, Policies and Procedures

204.

277 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(3); 42 C.F.R. 435.930.

278 Favors v. Toal. No. SU-92-CV-1734-G(Athens

Sup.Ct.) (consent decree entered April 4, 1994); Jeneski

V. Myers, 209 Ca. Rptr 178, 181 (1984), cert. denied

471 U.S. 1136 (1985).

.

279 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(3); 42 C.F.R. 431.220(a)(2);

ESS Manual 2200-1 (MT 1- 8/92).

280 OMA Provider Manual Part I 501-511. 281 42 U.S.C. 1396(1); 42 C.F.R. 440.230(d). 282 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(3); 42 C.F.R. 431.220(a)(I);

DMA Provider Manual Part I 501-511; ESS Manual,

2200-1 (MT 1- 8/92). 283 Pinneke V. Presisser. 623 F.2d 546, 550 (8th Cir.

1980); A.M.L. V. OHCF, 863 P.2d44 (Utah Ct.

App.1993) (Medicaid statute requires a presumption in

favor of ,the treating physician'S judgment as to medical

necessity). "The Committee's bill provides that the

physician is to be the key figure in determining utiliza-

tion of health services and provides that it is a physician -

who is to decide upon admission to a hospital, order

tests, stay."

dSru. gRsepa.n,dNtor.e4at0m4,en8t9si

and determine the length of h Cong., 1st Sess., reprinted

in 1965 U.S. Code Cong. & Admin. News, 1943, 1986. 284 42 U.s.C. 1396a(a)(23); id. 1396n(b); 42 C.F.R.

431.51.

285 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Georgia Better Health

Care 907.

)

286 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Georgia Better Health

Care, Overview.

287 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Georgia Better Health

Care, Overview.

288 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Georgia Better Health

Care 802.

289 OMA Provider Manual Part II, Georgia Better Health

Care 803.

290 Flier to recipients issued by OMA., The Georgia

Better Health Care Plan: Questions and Answers for '

New Members (1996).

291 Georgia has a waiver under 42 U.S.C. 1396n(b) to

allow it to use GBHC and HMOs. OMA Provider Manual
Part n, Georgia Better Health care, Overview. .

292 OMA Provider Manual Part II, Georgia Better Health

care, Overview.

293 One reason many doctors and dentists refuse to

participate in Medicaid is that its payment rates are

lower than those of Medicare and private insurance. In

response to this problem Congress has mandated that

states "assure that payments ... are sufficient to enlist

enough providers so that care and services are available

under the plan at least to the extent that such care and

services are available to the general population in the

geographic area." 42 U.S.C. 1396a(30)(A). A state

with low reimbursement rates and low participation may

be in violation of this provision. See, e.g. Clark V. Kizer,

758 ESupp. 572 (E.D.Cal 1990).

294 Georgia has a Section 1915(b) waiver to implement

Georgia Bener Health care. DMA Provider Manual Part

II. Georgia Better Health Care, Overview.

.

295 OMA Provider Manual Part II, Georgia Better Health

Care 801-80~.

63

296 DMA Provider Manual Part II. Georgia Better Health

Care. OVerview.

297 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Georgia Better Health

. Care 803.

298 HMO enrollees also do not have any limits on

physician visits or prescription drugs. However, since all

Medicaid recipients can get extra physician visits and

prescription drugs when medically necessary, the

services covered for HMO enrollees are essentially the

same as for other Medicaid recipients. HMOs may, but

are not required to, offer enhanced benefits packages

including vision and dental C<Jre for adults.

299 Flier to Recipients issued by Dl\1A, The Georgia

Better Health Care Plan: Questions and Answers for

New l\\embers (1996).

300 Georgia Medicaid Managed Care Manual. Health

Maintenance Organization tI ~., 1996.

301 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(23); 42 C.F.R. 431.51.

302 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Pharmacy Services

,/ 9 0 2 . .

_

303 DMA Provider Manual Part II. Pha'rmacy Services

903.

304 DMA Provider Manual Part II, Pharmacy Services

802.1; DMA Provider Manual Part II. Physician Services

803 (physician prior approval procedure for drugs

over numericalliinit). 305 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(14); 42 C.F.R. 447.53(a);

DMAProvider Manual Part I. Policies and Procedures

106.17.

306 DMA Provider Manual Part I, Policies and Proce-

dures 106.18.

307 This review process is known as a Fullard review.

The name comes from Fullard v. Pierce, Civ. Action #

CV580-15 (Consent Decree entered Nov. 4, 1982), in

which the Georgia Medicaid program agreed to set up a

process by which to determine if prOViders are incor-

rectly billing Medicaid reCipients.

!

3080.c.GA 49-4-145; Dl\lA Provider Manual Part I.

Policies and Procedures 201.

309 DMA Provider Manual' Part I. Policies and Proce-

dures 201.3.

.

310 42 U.S.C. .1396a(a)(16); 42 C.F.R. 431.52(b);

see, e.g.. DMA Provider Manual Part II, Diagnostic,

Screening. and Preventive Services, B-3. 311 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(25); 42 C.F.R. 433.138. 312 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(25); 42 C.F.R. 433.138.

313 Exceptions are EPSDT services and prenatal care if

not part of a global fee. 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(45); 42

C.F.R. 433.146.

314 The Medicaid Act requires that services be provided

with "reasonable promptness". 42 U.S.C. 1396a(a)(3);

42 C.F.R. 431.220; ESS Manual, 2200-1 (MT 1- 8/

92); Fullard v. Pierce, Civ. Action # CV580-15 (Consent

Decree entered Nov. 4, 1982) . 315 42 C.F.R. 431.210(a) and (d); Fullard v. Pierce,

Civ. Action # CV580-15 (Consent Decree entered Nov. 4,

1982). 316 42 C.F.R. 431.210(b)-(c); Fullard v. Pierce, Civ.

Action # CV 580-15 (COnSenl Decree entered Nov. 4.

1982).

64

-0
o o

Medicaid Resources
To apply fJr Medicaid:

'.

Division of Family and Children Service~ (DFACS)
(Appling) 1204 West Parker St. Baxley, GA 31513-0622
(912) 366-1010
(Atkinson) 204 East Legion Ave. Pearson, GA 31642-0278
(912) 422-3242
(Bacon) 417 South Dixon St. Alma. GA 31510-0447
(912) 632-8375
(Baker)' 101 Sunset Boulevard Newton, GA 31 770-0540
(912) 734-5247
(Baldwin) 154 Roberson Mill Rd. Milledgeville, GA 31061-0430
(912) 445-4135
(Banks) 423 Evans St. Homer, GA 30547-0159
(706) 677-2272
(Ban-ow) 16 Lee St. Winder. GA 30680-0546
(770) 868-4222
(Bartow) 47 Brooks Dr. cartersville, GA 30120-0818
(770) 387-3710
(Ben Hill) 124 SOuth Grant St. Fitzgerald, GA 31750-2901
(912) 426-5300

(Bem'en) 301 South Jefferson St. Nashville, GA 31639-5008 (912) 686-5568

(Bibb) 456 Oglethorpe St. Macon, GA 31201-3278
(912) 751-6051

(Bleckley) 401 Peacock St. Cochran, GA 31014-0499
(912) 934-3172

(Brantley) 104 Allen Street Nahunta. GA 31553-0308
(912) 462-6171

(Brooks) 201 S. Barnes St Quitman, GA 31643-1838
(912) 263-7567

(Bryan) 51 N. Courthouse St. Pembroke, GA 31321-0398
(912) 653-2805

(Bulloch) 41 Pulaski Hwy. Statesboro, GA 30459-1103
(912) 871-1333

(Burke) 729 West

6

th

St.

Waynesboro, GA 30830-0390

(706) 554-7751

(Butts) 178 Kennedy Dr. Jackson, GA 30223-4187
(770) 504-2200

(Calhoun) 345 Main St. Morgan, GA 31 766-0009
(912) 849-2625

(Camden) 1300 Charles Gilman Jr. Ave. Kingsland, GA 31548-0068
(912) 729-4583
(Candler) 750 S. Leroy St. , Metter, GA 30439-0046
(912) 685-2163
(Carroll) 165 Independence Dr. carrollcon, GA 30227
(706) 830-2050
(Catoosa) 7195 Nashville St. Ringgold, GA 30736-0058
(706) 935-2368
(Charlton) 401 West Oak St Folkston. GA 31537-0395 (912) 496-25i7
(Chatham) 2 East Henry St savannah. GA 31402-2566
(912) 651-2211
(Chattahoochee) 70 McNaughton St. Cusseta. GA 31805-0070
(706) 989-3681
(Chattooga) 302 South Commerce St. Summerville, GA 30141-0250
(706) 857-0817
(Cherokee) 105 Lamar Haley Parkway canCOn, GA 30114-0826
(770) 72073610
(Clarke) 284 North Ave. Athens, GA 30603-1881
(706) 227-7000

I

.

Watson, Sidney D., 1999, A Georgja Advocatcs Guide to Health care. fundcd by Health Law section of the State Bar of Georgia and

Mercer University Law school

65

(Clqy) 202 Wilson St. . Fort Gaines, GA 31 751-0189 (912) 768-2511
(Clqyton) 877 Battlecreek Rd. Jonesboro, GA 30236-1942 (FO) 473-2300
(CltilCh) 101 EastShirley Rd. Homerville, GA 31634-0396 (912) 487-5263
./ (Cobb) 325 Fairground St., SE Marietta, GA 30060-2399 (770) 528-5000
(Cwee) 1300 W. Baker Hwy. Douglas, GA 31534-1119 (912) 389-4286
(Colquitt) 1033 First St., SE Moultrie, GA 31776-3008 (912) 217-4000
(Columbia) , 6358 Columbia Rd.
Appling. GA 30802-0340 (706) 541-1640
(Cook) 1010 S. Hutchinson Ave. Adel, GA 31620-0634 (912) 896-3672
(Coweta) 533 Hwy. 29 North Newnan, GA 30263-4735 (770) 254-7234
(Cral riord) 586 North Dugger Ave. Roberta, GA 31078-0097 . (912) 836-3565
(Crisp) 107 West 23rd Ave. Cordele, GA 31010-0459 (912) 276-2349
(Dade) 50 North Bond St. nenton, GA 30752-0159 (706) 657-7511
(Dawson) 424 Hv.'Y. 53 Dawsonville, GA 30534-0867 (706) 265-6598

(Decatur) 505 Amelia Ave. Bainbridge, GA 31718-1077 (912) 248-2420
(Dekalb) 178 Sams St. Decatur, GA 30030-4134 (404) 370-5251,
(Dodge) 707 Legion Dr. Eastman, GA 31023-4219 (912) 374-6760
(Dooly) 205 West Union St. Vienna, GA 31092-0385 (912) 268-4111
(Dougherty) 21 7 W. Oglethorpe Blvd Albany, GA 31706-3249 (912) 430-4118
(Douglas) 6218 Hospital Way Douglasville, GA 3013'4-1135 (770) 489-3000
(Early) 626 Columbia Rd. Blakely, GA 31723-0747 (912) 723-4331
(Echols) 106 Church of God St. Statenville, GA 31648-9711 (912) 559-5751
({{/ingham) 204 Franklin St. , Springfield, GA 31329-0345 (912) 754-6471 ,
(Elbert) 121 Carey St. Elberton, GA 30635-1010 (706) 213-2001
(Emanuel) 143 North Anderson Dr. Swainsboro, GA 30401-0808 (912) 289-2400
(EI'ans) Courthouse Annex Claxton, GA 30417-0578 (912) 739-1222
(Fannin) 990 East Main St., Suite 10 Blue Ridge, GA 30513-4534 (706) 632-2296

(Fayette) 905 Hwy. 85 South Fayetteville. GA 30214-0128 (770) 460-2555
(Floyd) 436 Broad St. Rome, GA 30163-3054 (706) 295-6500
(Forsyth) 426 canton Rd. Cumming, GA 30028-0021 (770) 781-6700
(Franklin) 1133 Hull St. Carnesville, GA 30521-0279 (706) 384-4521
(Fulton) 230 Peachtree St., NW, Suite 300 Atlanta, GA 30303-1511 (404) 657-5219
(Gilmer) 54 Kiker St. Ellijay, GA 30540-1328 (706) 635-2361
(Glascock) 674 West Main St. Gibson, GA 30810-0225 (706) 598-2955
(Glynn) 3015 Altama Ave. . Brunswick,'GA 31521-0400 (912) 262-3200
(Gordon) 639 Oothcalooga St. calhoun. GA 30701-0217 (706) 624-1200
(Gra~-KA
2502 Ave. SE Cairo. GA 31728-0269 (912) 377-3154
(Greene) 1951 S. Main St. Greensboro, GA 30642-0460 (706) 453-2365
(Gwinnett) 530 Northdale Rd. Lawrenceville. GA 30245-4532 (770) 995-2100
(Habersham) 1045 Hollywood Hwy. Clarkesville. GA 30523-0160 (706) 754-2148

0 0 0

66



(Hall) 970 McEver Rd., Ext. Gainesville, GA 30504-3964
(nO) 532-5298
(Hancock) Augusta Hwy. Sparta. GA 31087-0070
(706) 444-1203
(Haralson) 21 Magnolia St. Bunchanan, GA 30113-0324
(nO) 646-3885
(Ham's) 134 North College St. Hamilton. GA 31811-0285
{706) 628-4226.
(Hart) 496 East Howell St. Hartwell. GA 30643-0518
(706) 376-5157
(Heard) 7686 US Hwy. 27 Franklin, GA 30217-0385
(706) 675-3361
(Henry) 125 Henry Parkway McDonough. GA 30253-2198
(nO) 954-2014
(Houston) 92 Cohen Walter Dr. Warner Robins, GA 31088'
(912) 988-7600
(Irwin) 108 North Irwin Ave. Ocilla, GA 31774-0546
(912) 468-7406
(Jackson) 456 Athens St. Jefferson, GA 30549-0526
(706) 367-3000
(jasper) 144 North Warren St., Monticello. GA 31064-1154
(706) 468-6461
( j i f ! Davis) 111 Jeff Davis St. Hazlehurst, GA 31539-0706
(9I2) 375-3942
. (Jif!erson) US Hwy. 1 North Louisville, GA 30434-0570
(912) 625-7259

(jenkins) 500 Gray St. Ext. Millen, GA 30442-0808
(912) 982-1944
(Johnson) 729 W. Court St. . Wrightsville, GA 31096-0500
(912) 864~4210
(jones) Hwy. 18, East Gray, GA 31032-0192
(912) 986-3125
(Lamar) 122 Westgate Plaza Barnesville. GA 30204-0970
(770) 358-5170
(Lanier) 313 Roquemore Circle Lakeland. GA 31635-1500
(912) 482-3686
(Laurens) 904 Claxton Dairy Rd. Dublin, GA 31040-0068
(912) 275-6633
(Lee) 121 Fourth St. Leesburg, GA 3~ 763-0145
(912) 759-3000
(Liberty) 508 N. Main St. Hinesville, GA 31310-0710
(912) 876-5174
(Lincoln) 171 North Peachtree St. Lincolnton, GA 3081 7-0220
(706) 359-3135
(Long) Academy St. Ludowici, GA 31316-0369
(912) 545-2177
(Lowndes) 206 Patterson St. Valdosta, GA 31603-5166
(912) 333-5200
(Lumpkin) 175 l1pton Dr. Dahlonega, GA 30533
(706) 864-1980
(Macon) 403 South Sumter Rd. Oglethorpe, GA 31068-0457
(912) 472-3700

(Madison) Courthouse Square. Hwy. 29 Danielsville, GA 30633-0176
(706) 795-2128
(Marion) Baker St. & 5thAve. Buena Vista, GA 31803-0473
(912) 649-2311
(McDtdfie) 307 Greenway St. Thomson, GA 30824-0507
(706) 595-2946
(McIntosh) 1221 North Way Darien, GA 31305-1139
(912) 437-4193
(Meriwether) 17234 Roosevelt Hwy. GreenviU~, GA 30222-9599
(706) 672-4244
(Miller) 69 Thompson Town Rd. Colquitt. GA 31737-5204
(912) 758-3387
(Mitchell) 90 West Oakland Ave. Camilla. GA 31730-0348
(912) 336-8419
(Monroe) 107 Martin Luther King Dr. Forsyth, GA 31029-0734
(912) 993-3030
(Montgomery) 130 East Spring St. Mt. Vernon. GA 30445-0217
(912) 583-2271
(Morgan) 2005 Main St.. Suite 100 Madison. GA 30650-0089
(706) 343-5800
(Murray) 830 G.I. Maddox Parkway Chatsworth, GA 30705-9987
(706) 695-7315
(Muscogee) 2100 Comer Ave. Columbus, GA 31902-2627
(706) 649-7311.
(Newton) 2165 Williams St. N.E. Covington. GA 30015-1588
(nO) 784-2490

67

(Oconee)
48 Greensboro Hwy. Watkinsville, GA 30677-0105 (706) 769-5206
(Oglethorpe)
231 Union Point St. Lexington, GA 30648- 1060 (706) 743-8152
, (Paulding)
145 Academy Dr. Dallas, GA 30132-0168 (770) 443- 781 0
(Peach)
700 Spruce St.-Wing E Fort Valley, GA 31030-0976 (912) 825-6428
(Pickens)
255 Chambers St. Jasper, GA 30143-1295 (706) 692-4701
(Pierce)
621 Hendry St. Blackshear, GA 31516-0620 (912) 449-6624
(Pike)
581 Hwy. 19 South Zebulon, GA 30295-0387 (770) 567-8427
(Polk)
,100 COunty Loop Rd. Cedartown, GA 30125-0147 (770) 749-2232
(Pulaski)
107 North Dooley St. Hawkinsville, GA 31036-0567 (912) 783-6191
(Putnam)
675 Godfrey Hwy. I Eatonton, GA 31024-3670
(706) 485-4921
(Quitman)
Main St,. Georgetown, GA 31754-0068 (912) 334-2427
(Rabun)
Hiawassee St. Clayton, GA 30.515-0787 (706) 782-4283
(Randolph)
31 1 North Webster St. ' Cuthbert, GA 31704-1269 (912) 732-3742

(Richmond)
520 Fenwick St. Augusta, GA 30903-2277 (706) 721-2536
(Rockdale)
975 Thylor St., SW . Conyers, GA 30012 (770) 388-5025
(Schley)
103 E. Oglethorpe St. Ellaville, GA 31806-0367 (912) 937-2591
(Screven)
110 Singleton Ave. Sylvania, GA 30467-0513 (912) 564-2041
(Seminole) ,
108 West 4th St. Donalsonville, GA 31737-5204 (912) 524-2365
(Spalding)
41 1 East Solomon St. Griffin, GA 30223-0039 (779) 228-1386
(Stephens)
1000 East Tugalo St. Toccoa, GA 30577-1941 (706) 282-4505
(Stewart)
Hwy. 27, Broad St. Lumpkin, GA 31815-0308 (912) 838-4335
(Sumter)
1542 East Forsyth St. Americus, GA 31709-1669 (912) 931-2462
(Talbot)
Jordan City Rd. ,Thlbotton. GA 31827-0096 (706) 665-8524
(Taliq/erro)
107 COmmerce St Crawfordville, GA 30631-0040 (706) 456-2339
(Tattnal/)
11 7 North ,Main St. Reidsville, GA 30453-0518 (912) 557-7721
(Taylor)
Hwy. 137, West Butler, GA 31006-0366 (912) 862-5221

(Telfair)
310 E. Brewton St. McRae, GA 31055-0456 (912) 868-3030

(Terrell)
642 Randolph St., SE Dawson, GA 31742-0030 (912) 995-4431

(Thomas)
438 Smith Ave. Thomasville, GA 31799-2740 (912) 225-4005

(7Jft) 410 West 2nd St. llfton, GA 31793-7550 (912) 386-3388

(Toombs)

162 Oxley Dr.

Lyons, GA 30436-0191

" (912) 526-8117

"-

(Towns)
456 N. Main St./The Mall Hiawassee, GA 30546-0156 ' (706) 896-3524

(7reutlen)
108 Martin Luther King Dr. Soperton, GA 30457-0625 (912) 529-3757

(7roup)
504 East Depot St. laGrange, GA 30241-4631 (706) 845-4200

(Turner)
336 North St. Ashburn, GA 31714-0804 (912) 567-4353

(lwiggs)
719-A Hwy. 80 East Jefferson, GA31044-0530 (912) 945-3258

(Union)
301 SChool Circle Blairsville, GA 30514-0220 (706) 745-2931

(Upson)
711 North Bethel St. Thomaston, GA 30286-3103 (706) 646-,6043

(Walker)
10056 N. Hwy. 27 Rock Spring. GA 30739-2121 (706) 375-0726

0 0
0'

68



(IVa/ron) 1110 East Spring St. Monroe, GA 30655-0927i (770) 207-4000
(Ware) 1200 Plant Ave. Waycross. GA 31502-2048 (706) 285-6040
(Warren) 224 North Legion Dr. Warrenton. GA 30828-01 66 (706) 465-3326
(Washington) 1124 South Harris St. Sandersville. GA 31082-0108 (912) 553-2350
(Wayne) 1120 S. First St.
Jesup, GA 31598-0267
(912) 426-5866
(Webster) Hwy.4 Preston, GA 31824-0009 (912) 828-6265
(Wheeler) Third Ave.IP.O. Box 22] Alamo, GA 30411-0221 (912) 568-7127
(White) 1241 Helen Hwy., Suite 2qO Cleveland, GA 30528-0455 (706) 865-3128
(Whitfield) 1142 Chananooga Rd. Dalton. GA 30722-1203 (706) 272-233]
3(W04il2c0n{l Ave. Rochelle, GA 31079-0246 (912) 365-2243
(Wilkes) 48 Lexington Ave. Washington, GA 30673-01 26
(706) 678-2814
(Il'ilkinson) I II West Main sr. Irwinton, GA 31042-0526 (912) 946-2224
(Worth) 503 N. Henderson St. Sylvester. GA 3] 791 -0527 (912) 777-2000

For non-emergency . transportation to and from Medicaid-covered services:
(Banks. Ba"ow, Bartow. catoosa. Chattooga. Cherokee, Clarke, Cobb. Dade. Dawson. Douglas, Elbert. Fannin. f1oyd, Forsyth. Franklin. Gilmer. Gordon, Greene, Gwinnett. Habersham. Hall. Haralson. Hart. jackson. Lumpkin. Madison. Morgan. Mu"ay, Newton! Oglethorpe. Oconee. Paulding. Pickins. Polk. Rabun. Rockdale. Stephens. 1bwns, Union. Walker, Walton. White, Whitfield) (770) 319-6128 or 1-(888) 217-8870
(Fulton. DeKalb) (404) 763-2592
(Baldwin. Bibb, Bleckley. Butts, Ca"oll. Clayton. Coweta. erawJord, Dodge. Fayette. Hancock, Heard, Henry. Houston, jasper, johnson, jones. Lamar, Laurens. Men'wether, Monroe, Montgomery. Peach. Pi"ke, Pulaski; Putnam, Spalding, Telfair, 'It"eutlen. 'It"oup. llviggs. Upson. Washington, Wheeler; Wilcox, Wilkinson) 1- (888) 224- 7981
(Appling. Atkinson. Bacon. Brant/ey. Bryan, Burke. Bulloch. Camden. Candler.. Charlton, Chatham. Clinch. Coffee, Columbia. {ffingham. Emanue~ Evans, Glascock. G{ynn, jdfDavis, jdJerson. jenkins. Liberty. Lincoln. Long. IlfcDt.!/Jie. McIntosh. Pierce, Richmond, Screven. Taliqferro, Tattnall, Toombs. Ware, Wa"en. Wayne. Wilkes) 1-(888) 224-7988
(Baker. Ben Hill Berrien. Brooks, Calhoun. Chattahoochee, Qay. Colquitt. Cook. crisp, Decatur, Dooly. Dougherty, Early. Echols. Grad)~ Harris. Irwin. Lanier, Lee. LOlI'nd,s. Ilfacon. Marion. Miller. Mitchell. Muscogee, Quitman. Randolph. Schley, Seminole. Stewart. Sumter; Talbot. Taylor,
Terrell. Thomas. 7Jft. 7Umer;
webster. Worth) 1- (888) 224- 7985

1b apply for Medicaid home and community-based services under the Medicaid COmmunity Care Services Waiver:
Area Agencies on Aging: (Cherokee. aayton. Cobb. Dekalb, Douglas. Fa;yette. Fulton, Gwinnett. Henry, Rockdale) Atlanta Regional Commission AAA 3715 Northside Pkwy. Atlanta. GA 30327 (404) 364-2527
(Burke. Columbia, Emanuel, Glascock, Hancock. jdferson. jenkins, johnson. Lincoln, McDtdJie, Richmond, Screven, Taliqferro, Wa"en. Washington. Wilkes) central Savannah River AAA 2123 Wrightsboro Rd. Augusta. GA 30904 (706) 737-1823
(Bryan, Bulloch, Camden. Chatham. {//ingham. GlYnn. Liberty, Long. McIntosh) Coastal Georgia AAA 127 F Street BrunSWick. GA 31520 (912) 264-7363
(Bartow, catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, Fannin, f1oyd, Gilmer, Gordon, Haralson, Mu"'{)'. Paulding. Pickens, Polk, Walker; Whitfield) Coosa Valley AAA # 1 Jackson Hill Dr. Rome. GA 30161 (706) 295-6485
(Banks. Dawson, Forsythe, Franklin, Habersham, Hall, Hart, Lumpkin, Rabun, .Stephens, 1bwns, Union. White) Georgia Mountains AAA 508 Oak St. Suite 1 Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 538-2650
(Appling. Bleckley, Candler, Dodge, Evans. jdfDavis. Laurens, Montgomcry. Pulaski, TattnalL TeJlair. 1bombs. '!reutlen. Wayne. Wheeler, Wilcox) Heart of Georgia Altamaha AAA 505 West Parker St. Baxley. GA 31513 (912) 367-3648

69

(Baldwin, Bibb, Crawford, Houston, Jasper; Jones, Monroe, Peach, Pumam, 7Wiggs, Wilkinson) Middle Georgia AAA 175-C Emery Hwy.
Macon, GA 31201
(912) 751-6160

(Barrow. aarke, Elbert. Greene, Jackson, Madison. Morgan. Newton, Oconee, Oglethorpe, Walton) Northeast Georgia AAA 305 Research Dr. .
Athens. GA 30610. (706) 369-5650

(Atkinson. Bacon. Ben Hz7L Berrien, Brantlf!)'.

Brooks, Charlton. ainch,. Cfl!fee. Cook Echols,

Irwin. Lanier; Lowndes, Pierce; 71ft. 1Umer;

Ware)

,

Southeast Georgia AAA .

3395 Harris Rd.

Waycross, GA 31503

(912) 285-6097

o o

o
70





. Medicare


.

\





INDEX

Medicare

Overview

~

What senhces does Medicare cover? I
Who is el~gible for Medicare?

What medical services does Medicare Part A cover?

75 . ,75 75 76

Chart: MJdicare Medical Hospital Insurance (Part A) .

COvered Services for 1999

77



Medicare!Chart: Medicare Medical Insurance (Part B)

COvered Services for 1999~

18

I

What medical services does Medicare Part B cover?

79

What serJices are not covered by Medicare?

79

What do edicare Pari A services cost the beneficiary?

79

What do Medicare Part B services cost the beneficiary?

80

What is M~dicare Managed care and Medicare+Choice?

80

What Medicaid programs help low income Medicare

benefidIiari.es pay their Medicare premiums, deductibles

and co-payments?

81

What insurance is available to supplement

Medicat:e's coverage?

81

How are Medicare payments made?

81

I

How does f\1edicare pay hospitals?

82

How long ~oes a provider have to bill Medicare?

82

What sho~ld a Medicare beneficiary do if he or she disagrees

with a decision made about Medicare coverage?

82

How do beheficiaries appeal a decision about the.

need fot hospital care?

82



How do MJdicare beneficiaries appeal other decisions

made aBout Part A Hospital Insurance?

83

How do Mddicare beneficiaries appeal Part B decisions?

83

How does ~omeone enroll in Medicare?

83

73

Medicare*



Overview

pared and published by the Legal Counsel for the

Medicare is a federal health insurance program. It helps pay health care coI sts for people 65 and over; people who have re~eived Social Security

Elderly. What services does Medicare cover?

disability payments for at least 24 months, and

. Medicare coverage has two parts. Medicare Part

those with end-stage ren*l failure. No income or

A-Hospital Insurance covers inpatient care, skilled

resource test is required ~or Medicare. However,

nursing home care, home health care, and hospital

Medicare imposes substantial premiums,

care. Part B-Supplementary Medical Insurance

deductibles and cost-shating requirements. Medicare has two part~. Medicare Part A-
Hospital Insurance, hel~s pay for in-patient hospital care, skilled nur~ing home care, home

covers doctor services, therapy services, outpatient hospital services, diagnostic tests, durable medical equipment, ambulance services and various other medical supplies and services. Medicare does not

health care, and hospice. Medicare Part B -

cover most routine physical examinations, glasses,

Supplementary Medical\lnsurance, helps pay for hearing aids or custodial care in nursing homes or

doctors' services. outpatient hospital services,

board and care homes.

home health care, and a rtumber of other medical

services and supplies that are not covered by

Medicare Part A.

I

Who is eligible for Medicare? Many people are eligible for Medicare Part A

Medicare Plus Choice (Part C) offers Medicare beneficiaries the alternati~e of joining a managed
I
care plan, such as an HM0. In Medicare+Choice

without paying a premium. These are people who are:

beneficiaries must use thJ managed care I
organization's doctors and other health care

65 or older who receive or are eligible to receive Social Security or Railroad Retirement

providers. In return, the b1eneficiary's out-of-

benefits;3

pocket costs are generallY\lower than in the

65 or older who had Medicare-covered gov-

Medicare fee-for-service system.

ernment employment and their spouses;4

Medicare is administered by the Health care

people with disabilities and have received Social

Financing Administration (HCFA) of the U.S.

Security or Railroad Retirement disability benefits

Department of Health and Human Services. Local

for twenty four months; or

Social Security Administration offices take applica-

kidney dialysis or kidney transplant patients.

tions for Medicare and prdvide general information

about the program.

People who are eligible for Medicare Part A

The Medicare statute is found at 42 U.S.C.

without paying a premium may enroll in Medicare

T1h3e95C.CTHhMeerdeigcualiadti/oMnesdiacre~raet

42 C.ER. Reporter

401.
is an

Pan B by paying a monthly premium. However, Social Security and Railroad Retirement recipients

excellent research tool for finding Medicare law and policy. A number of e~cellent practice manuals

must notify the Social Security Administration if they do not want Part B coverage. Otherwise, Part

are available. Of particular note are Medicare: A . B premiums are automatically deducted from their

Practice Guide1 by Alfred Chiplin and Walter

monthly Social Security or Railroad Retirement

Keenan and Medicare Practice Manual 2 pre-

check.5

He~th "'.""n, Sid"y 0., 1999, A G,L, Mvoo"" Gojd, '" Health "'"', funded by

Law seaion of the Sta'" So< ofGCO"ia and

~\crcer university LilW School

75

Certain other people may enroll in Medicare Part

Part Acoverage includes a semi-private room,

A by paying a monthly premium. To be eligible to "buy-in" to Pan A, individuals must be 65 or older and a U.S. citizen or a legal alien who has

meals, nursing and related services; use of hospital facilities; medications, medical supplies, appliances and equipment normally furnished by the

o

lived in the United States continuously for at least hospital; operating room and recovery room costs;

five years. People buying into Medicare must

and other diagnostic or therapeutic items or

purchase both Part Aand Part B Medicare. They

services normally furnished by the hospital,

may not purchase Part A only.6 A number of

induding rehabilitative services such a,s physi~l

Medicaid programs exist to help pay the cost of

therapy and speech therapy.

Medicare Part A and Part Bpremiums for low

income people. These programs are discussed in

Skilled nursing home care. Medicare Pan A

the section on Medicaid programs that help low

pays for up to 100 days of skilled nursing home,

income Medicare beneficiaries pay their Medicare

care per spell of illness. To qualify for Medicare

premiums, deductibles and co-payments near the

payment the beneficiary must be admitted to the

end of this chapter. For more c,tetails on Medicaid

skilled nursing home within thirty days of a

eligibility, see page 36.

hospital stay lasting at least three days (not

counting the day of discharge) to provide care for

a condition which was treated in the hospital.

What medical services does Medicare Part A

Medicare only pays for nursing home care when

cover?

skilled nursing or skilled rehabilitation services

are needed on a daily basis. The covered services

, Medicare Part A covers the following services

.indude nursing care, semi-private room, and

when they are medically necessary:

meals; physical, occupational and speech therapy;

I
inpatient care,

medical supplies, drugs use of appliances such as a wheelchair; and other health services generally

skilled nursing home care, home health care, and hospice care.

o provided by a skilled nursing facility. Home health care. Home health care is covered

when skilled nursing care is needed on a part-time

Spell of illness. Medicare Part A services are

or intermittent basis.7 No prior hospital stay is

measured through benefit periods, also called

needed and there is no limit on the days of cover-

spells of illness. The number of days Medicare

age per spell of illness.

covers is limited during each spell of illness. Once

Covered home health services include skilled

the limit is exceeded, the patient is responsible for _ nursing care, physical therapy and speech therapy.

all charges.

OCcupational therapy and medical social services

A spell of illness begins the day a patient is

may also be covered if done under the direction of

admitted to a hospital for inpatient care. It ends

.a qualified person and ordered bya physidan.

when the patient is outof the hospital or skilled

Services of a part-time home-health aid to care for

nursing home for 60 continuous days, including

the personal needs of a patient may also be

the day of discharge. It also ends if a patient is in

covered.

a skilled nursing home for 60 straight days

Home health coverage is moving from Part A to

without receiving any skilled nursing home care.

Part B. A new monthly Part B home health pre-

Once a spell of illness benefit period ends, a new

mium is being phased in over a seven-year period.

one begins. No limit exists on the number of '

At the same time, a new system for reimbursing

benefit periods an enrollee may have.

home health care providers is making it more

difficult for beneficiaries to get and keep services.

Inpatient care. Medicare Part A covers up to 90

days of medically necessary inpatient care per

spell of illness. If a patient uses all 90 days of covered care during a spell of illness, Medicare also covers an additional 60 lifetime reserve days.

o

Lifetime reserve days, unlike spell of illness days,

are not renewable. Once used, lifetime reserve

days are gone.

76



Medicare H01:itaI Insurance (Part A) Covere Services for 1999

Services

I

HospitalizationI

Semiprivate room and board, general norsing

and other hospital

services and supplies

Benefit First 60 days
61st to 90th day 91 st to 150th day Beyond 150 days

Medicare Pays All but $768
All but $192 a day All but $384 a day Nothing

Beneficiary Pays $768
$192 a day $384 a day All costs

Skilled Nursing \ Facility Care
Semiprivate room and
board, skilled nUfsing
and rehabilitative;
suppries- services, and oth~r
setVices and

First 20 days Additional 80 days

Beyond 100 days

.

I

I Home Health Care
Part-nme or

Unlimited as long as the patient meets

I intermittent skilled care, Medicare requirements

home health aide

for home health care

services, durable

benefits

medical equipment and

supplies, and other

services

I

I Hospice Care
Pain relief, symPim management, and
I support services for
the terminally ill

For as long as doctor certifies

Blood

I

1 When furnished b a
hospital or skilled

nursing facility dUling

a covered stay

Unlimited during a benefit period if medically necessary

100% of approved amount

Nothing

All but $96.00 a day Nothing
100% of approved amount for services; 80% of approved amount for durable medical eqUipment

Up to $96.00 a day All costs
Nothing for services; 20% of 'foproved amount or durable medical equipment

All but limited costs for Limited cost sharing for outpatient drugs and outpatient d.rugs and inpatient respite care inpatient respite care
All but first 3 pints per For first 3 pints. calendar year

. I'
60 reserve days may be used only once. I
Neither Medicare nor Medigap insurance will pay for most nursing home care. To the extenf the three pints of blood are paid for or replaced under one part of Medicare during the calendar year, they do not have to be paid for or replaced under the other paI rt.
I
1999 Part A morlthly premium: $309 with fewer than 30 quarters of Medicarecovered emploI yment;
$170 with 30 or ;more quarters, but fewer than 40 quarters of covered employment. Most beneficiaries do not have to pay a premium for Part A.
1
Source: HCFA's M~dicare Source Book

77

Medicare Medical Insurance (Part B) Covered Services for 1999

Services
Medical Expenses Physician's services, inpatient and ou~tient medical an surgical services and supplies. physical occupational and speech therapy, diagnostic tests. and durable medical equipment

I

Benefit

Medicare Pays

Unlimited services if medically necessary, except for the services of independent physical and occupational therapists

80% of approved amount (after $100 deductible); 50% of approved amount for most outpatient mental health services; up to $720 a year each for independent physical and occupational therapy

Beneficiary Pays
$100 deductible; 20% of approved amount after deductible; charges above approved amount;-- 50% for most outpatient mental health services; 20% of first $1500 for each independent physical and occupational therapy and all charges thereafter each year.

Clinical Laboratory Services Blood tests, urinalysis, and more

Unlimited medically necessary

Generally 100% of approved amount

Nothing for services.

Home Health
CarePart-time or intermittent skilled care, home health aide services, durable medical equipment
and supplies and other services

Unlimited as long as - the patient meets
Medicare requirements.

100% of approved amount for services; 80% of approved amount for durable medical equipment

Nothing for services; 20% of amout approved for durable medical equipment
,

Outpatient Hospital Services Services for the diagnosis or treatment of an iIlness or injury

Unlimited if medically necessary

Medicare payment to hospital based on hospital costs

20% of whatever the hospital charges (after $100 deductible)

Blood

Unlimited if medically necessary

80% of approved amount (after $100 deductible and starting with 4th pint)

First 3 pints plus 20% of approved amount for additional pints (after $100 deductible) -

Beneficiary pays the $100 Part B deductible only once each year. Federal law limits charges for physician services Part B pays for home health care only if someone does not have Part A of Medicare. To the extent any of the three pints of blood are paid for or replaced under one part of Medicare
during the calendar year, they do not have to be paid for or replaced under the other part.
1999 Part B monthly premium: $45.50 (premium may be higher if you enroll late.
Source: HCFA's Medicare Source Book

o o
o

78



Hospice care. Medi~are Part A hospice covers

for prescribing or fitting them;

services aimed primarily at providing pain relief,

prescription and nonprescription drugs;

symptom management\and support services to

private duty nurses;

terminally ill people anCl their families. Hospice

chiropractic services;

care is covered wh'en a!docror certifies that the

cosmetic surgery;

beneficiary is terminally ill and the patient

dental care;

chooses to receive carelfrom a hospice instead of

private rooms;

standard Medicare benefits for terminal illness.

orthopedic shoes; and

services covered by employer group health

What medical servicJ does Medicare Part B

cover?

I

Medicare Part B is o~ten thought of as coverage

plans when the plan is the primary payer. What do Medicare Part A services cost the

for doctor services. HoJrever, Part B covers a wide beneficiary?

range of medically nece1ssary outpatient services

People who qualify automatically for Medicare

and items including:

Part A do not pay a premium for Part A, Those

who voluntarily enroIl do. In 1999. voluntary

physician services provided in the doctor's

enroIlees with less than 30 quarters of Medicare-

office. at home, in a clinic, hospital or nursing

home;

I

covered employment pay $309 per month. Those with 30 to 39 quarters of covered employment pay

outpatient hospital services;

$170 per month.

mental health servites;

Medicare Part A requires substantial deductibles

pap smears, mamm:ograms, prostrate and

and co-payments. Part A also limits the number of

colorectal cancer screening, bone mass measure-

covered days of hospital care and skilled nursing

ment and di-abetes self rIhanageme. nt; X-rays and laboratory tests;
I prescription drugs ~nd biologicals that cannot
be self-administered;

care per spell of iIIness.
Inpatient Care. Medicare Part A covers up to 90 days of hospital care for each spell of illness. A

I . transfusion of blood and blood components;
flu vaccinations;

hospital deductible of $768 per speIl of iIIness is required. After the deductible is met, the benefi-

physical therapy and speech pathology

ciary pays nothing for the first 60 days. After that,

services;

the patient must pay $192 per day for the next 30

home health care;

days. After 90 days, the patient may use his or her

I medical supplies sue::h as surgical dressing,
splints and casts;

60 lifetime reserve days. The co-payment for lifetime reserve days is $384. Once the lifetime

durable medical equipment such as crutches.
wheelchairs and blood p~essure monitors;

reserve days are used, Medicare Part A inpatient benefits are exhausted for that spell of iIIness.

prosthetic devices; a1nd

The patient is liable for the fuIl cost of care.

ambulance services.

Skilled nursing home care. Medicare Part A

What services are riot covered by Medicare?
.. Medicare only covers ~ervices that are medically

covers up to 100 days of care in a skilled nursing facility per speIl of illness. No deductible applies. to

necessary. However, many types of medica~ly
necessary services and s~pplies are not-covered by

skilled nursing home care. The beneficiary pays nothing for the first 20 days of skilled nursing

Medicare. Medicare does not cover:

care. Medicare pays for all covered services. For

. the next 80 days, the patient must pay $96.00 per

custodial care;

day. No lifetime reserve days are available for

personal comfort items;

skilled nursing care. Thus, the beneficiary must

routine check-ups (ekcept pap smears, mammograms. prostrate aI nd colarectal cancer

pay all the costs of care after 100 days.

screening. bone mass mdtsurement. and diabetes self-management are coveI red);
intermediate care in Jnursing facility;

Home Health. No deduc~ibles or co-payments are required for Part A home health care services.
However, over the next seven years home health

full-time nursing carJ at home; hearing aids. eye gla~ses and examinations
I

care is being moved from Part A to Part B. This will mean increased out-of-pocket costs for benefi-

I

79

I

I

ciaries, including an additional Part B premium for home health.

What do Medicare Part B services cost the

beneficiary?

-

AIl Medicare beneficiaries must pay a monthly

premium. In 1999, the premiuin is $45.50 per

month. A new monthly Part B home health pre-

mium is being phased in over a seven year period

to cover the cost of moving home health services

from Part A to Part B.

Medicare Part B has one deductible for all

services except mammograms and pap ~mears

which are covered without a deductible. The

deductible for all other services is $100 per year.

After the deductible is met, for most services Part

B pays 80 percent of the Medicare-approved

amount and the beneficiary is responsible for a 20

percent co-payment. For some outpatient mental

health services, Medicare pays 50 percent of the

Medicare-approved amount and the beneficiary

must pay a 50 percent co-payment.

Howeyer, the beneficiary's 'out of pocket cost

may be more than the 20 (or 50) percent co-

payment. For example, hospital outpatient charges

tend to be substantially higher than Medicare

approved amounts. The beneficiary must pay the

20 percent co-payment, plus any amount by which

the hospital's charges exceed the Medicare-

approved amount. As a result, Medicare beneficia-

ries pay 49 percent of the reimbursement for Part

Boutpatient hospitarservices out of their own

pockets. 8

For physicians and other services, the benefi- .

ciarycan limit his or her out of pocket costs to the

20 percent co-payment by using a Medicare

participating physician who accepts assign-

ment. Participating physicians who accept assign-

ment agree to accept the Medicare approved

amount as payment in fuU and tocol1ect only 20 percent of that amount from the patient. Physicians who do not accept assignment may charge

o

Medicare beneficiaries up to 115% of the Medicare

approved amount, and coUect the extra 15 percent

from the beneficiary. Here is what this means in

terms of the cost to the Medicare beneficiary(See

chart below):

Medicare beneficiaries should always ask

physicians and medical suppliers if they accept

assignment. Using a provider who does can mean

substantial savings for the beneficiary. The names

and addresses of Medicare-participating doctors

and suppliers are listed in the Medicare-Participat-

ing Physician/Supplier Directory. This directory

can be obtained free of charge from the Medicare

Part B carrier for Georgia, AETNA Insurance, P.O. Box 3018. sa~nnah, Georgia 31402-3018,

1(800)727-0827.

What is Medicare Managed Care and

Medicare+Choice1

Medicare Plus Choice (Part C), a new part of

Medicare, offers more Medicare beneficiaries the

choice between the traditional Medicare fee for service system and managed care plans such as HMOs.9 Under traditional Medicare; beneficiaries

o

get fee for service care from almost any doctor,

hospital or other health care provider. Generally, a

fee is charged each time a service is used. Medi-

care pays its share of the bill. The beneficiary is

liable for deduetibles and co-payments.

In Medicare+Choice, beneficiarieS get all th~ir

care from a managed care organization's doctors

and other health care providers. Beneficiaries are

aUowed to use other providers in emergencies or

when the beneficiary is out of the plan's service,

,
Doctor Accepts Assignment
Doctor Does Not Accept Assignment
,

Actual Charge
$115
$115

Medicare. Approved Charge
$100
$100

Medicare Pays
$80 (80% of approved charge)
$80 (80% of approved charge)

80

Enrollee is Responsible for
$20 (20% of approved charge)
$35 (20% of the approved charge + the extra 15% charged by the physician)

o



area and needs urgent flledical care. The government pays the manage~ care organization a set rate per Medicare bene~ciary enrolled rather than on a fee for service basis.
All Medicare+Choice !plans offer the basic Medicare benefit package and some plans cover additional services not usually reimbursed by Medicare. Beneficiaries \enrolled in . Medicare+Choice plans pay a monthly premium and co-payments for services. These out-of-pocket costs vary depending o~ the plan. However, individuals enrolled in Medicare+Choice generally have lower out-of-pockbt costs than those in the
fee for service system. I
Medicare+Choice allows several different types of managed care organd:ations to be offered to Medicare beneficiaries ibcluding HMOs, provider sponsored organization~, preferred provider organizations, and medi1cal savings account plans. More information about!Medicare+Choice is available in the Medicare publication Medicare and You available at lockl Social Security offices and online at www.mediItare.go.v/publications/ handbook.html. Whether a beneficiary chooses a fee for service or Medieate+Choice plan, they have the same Medicare protections, benefits and appeal rights.
What Medicaid programs help low income Medicare beneficiaries pay their Medicare premiums, deductibles ~nd co-payments?
Low income Medicare beneficiaries with few I
assets qualify for state Medicaid assistance to help pay the costs of medical ~re not covered by Medicare. Medicare beneficiaries with countable
I
income at or below the 551 benefit level-$494 for an individual and $741 fbr a couple in 1998qualify for full Medicaid benefits. See Medicaid, page 36, for details on eligibility and services.
Medicare recipients with higher incomes may qualify for one of four pr6grams that help cover the costs of Medicare prerttiums, deductibles and co-payments. The four prpgrams are: the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) program, the Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) program. and two new pr6grams enacted in 1997, the Qualified Medicare Beheficiary I (QMBI) program and Qualified M~dicare Beneficiary (QMBII) program. These pI'rograms have an asset limit of $4,000 for an indirdual and $6,000 for a couple. The income limits and benefits vary. For details on eligibility and b~nefits, see page 36 on . Medicaid.

What insurance is available to supplement ; Medicare's coverage?
Many private insurance companies offer supplemental insurance called Medigap coverage. Medicare-beneficiaries 65 and older who purchase Medigap coverage within six months of their eligibility for Medicare Part A cannot be denied. Medigap insurance and cannot be charged higher premiums because of existing health problems.
The coverage and sale of Medigap policies is regulated. While different Medigap policies offer different benefits, all Medigap policies must offer the following minimum benefit package. Policies must cover:
Part A daily coinsurance for the 61st through the 90th days of hospitalization in each spell of illness;
Part A daily coinsurance (or each of Medicare's 60 non-renewable, lifetime reserve days for hospital care;
100 percent coverage of inpatient care if all Medicare hospital benefits are exhausted;10
Part B 20 percent coinsurance charge; and the reasonable cost of the first three pints of blood. Medicare authorizes the marketing of ten standard Medigap plans with different benefits packages and costs. All ten plans may be sold in Georgia. Medicare has an excellent publication, Guide to Health Insurance for People with Medicare, explaining all ten types of policies. This publication is available at district Social Security offices and online at www.medicare.gov/publications/guide.pdf.
How are Medicare payments made? For Medicate Part A, the provider must submit
the claim for payment. The hospital, skilled nursing facility or other provider. files the claims with a private insurance company which has contracted with the federal government to process Part A claims. These insurance companies are called Medicare intermediaries. The Medicare Part A intermediary for Georgia is Blue Cross/Blue Shield. The intermediary pays the provider and sends the beneficiary a Benefits Notice showing what was billed, what Medicare paid, and what the beneficiary is responsible for paying. The Benefits Notice also explains how to appeal a denial of coverage or other payment decision.
.For Medicare Part B, the doctor or other provider submits the claim to a Part B carrier. Carriers are insurance companies that do the same thing for Part B that intermediaries do for Part A-they ,

81

process and pay Part Bclaims. The Part B carrier

for Georgia is Aetna Insurance.

Part B claims are paid two ways. Some doctors

and other Part B providers are participating

providers who accept assignment. The Medicare

payment goes directly to the doctor or other

provider. All the individual pays is the deductible

ahd 20 percent co-payment.

.Under Part B, if the physician or other provider

does not accept assignment, the enrollee must pay

the provider the full amount and then wait to be

reimbursed by Medicare. Physicians who do not

accept assignment may charge the Medicare .

beneficiary up to '15 percent more than the Medi-

care-approved amount for the service. See the

discussion of beneficiary costs for Part B services.

earlier. for an explanation of the additional cost to

individualsof using a physician who does not

accept assignment.

,

The beneficiary is always sent an Explanation

of Medicare Benefits explaining Part B payment.

This notice shows the services billed. charges

approved, amount credited toward the deductible.

and amount paid by Medicare. The form also .

explains how the beneficiary can appeal denials

and payment decisions, and gives the name.

address. and toll-free number of the Part B carrier.

How does Medicare pay hospitals?

Medicare uses a system of paying most hospi-

tals called the Prospective Payment System. Under

this system. hospitals are paid fixed amounts

based on the principal diagnosis for each Medicare

hospital stay.

.

How long does a provider have to bill Medicare?
For Medicare to.make payments on claims, the provider must timely submit claims for payment. Providers have between 12 and 15 months to submit claims. 11 If a provider fails to timely submit a bill for payment by Medicare, the pr02 vider cannot seek payment from the enrollee.

What should a Medicare beneficiary do if he or she disagrees with a decision made about Medicare coverage?
Medicare beneficiaries have a right to appeal
a decisions denying coverage for services and to
contest the' amount Medicare pays on claim. The Medicare' Explanation of Benefits form explains the decisions made oil a claim as well as the steps to appeal a claims determination. The following sections outline the apPeals process.

.,

How do beneficiaries appeal a decision about

the need for hospital care? .

Peer Review Organizations make decisions about the need for Part A hospital care. Peer

0

Review Organizations (PROs) are private. non-

profit corporations composed of practicing doctors

and other health care professionals who are paid

by the federal government to review the hospital

care of Medicare patients. Each state has a PRO to

help Medicare decide whether care is reasonable

'and necessary. is provided in the appropriate

setting, and meets the standards of quality ac-

cepted by the medical profession. Where such

standards are not met, PROs have the authority to

deny payment. 12 .

In Georgia, the Peer RevieW Organization is the

Georgia Medical Care Foundation, 57 Executive

Park South, Suite 200, Atlanta, Georgia 30329.

The telephone number is, (404) 982-0411.

A beneficiary who believes that he or she is

improperly refused admission to a hospital or is

forced to leave the hospital too soon may appeal

the PRO's decision. The steps are as follows: '

Pre-Admission Decisions. When someone is
o trying to enter a hospital for treatment, the hospi-
tal may tell them that the treatment will not be covered by Medicare. If so, request a written explanation of the decision. To appeal the pre-' admission decision. request in writing or by . telephone that the PRO either review the hospital's decision or reconsider its own decision, as appropriate. The PRO must respond within three working days if the request for revi~ is submitted within three calendar days of the initial decision ' denying hospital admission. Otherwise, the PRO has 30 days to respond, although a decision must be made within 60 days of the initial decision denying hospital admission.
Noncoverage Decisions. If Medicare is covering a hospital stay, the hospital may give the Medicare enrollee a "notice of noncoverage" that the stay will no longer be covered by Medicare. If this happens. write down the date of the notice. If the hospital or doctor gives this information verbally, request that it be put in writing. These noncoverage decisions can be appealed by calling the PRO. The PRO has three working days to decide the appeal. If the PRO reverses its. initial decision, Part A will continue to pay for the hospital stay.. If the PRO does not change its initi~il decision. the hospital can charge the Medicare beneficiary beginning with the third calendar day after receipt of the notice of noncoverage. Thus, a

82

-

Medicare beneficiary maYI have to pay for part of



the hospital stay while the PRO decides the

appeal.

I',

PRO decisions can be appealed by requesting a

reconsideration by the PRb. PRO reconsideration

decisions involving $200 br more can be appealed

to a Social Security Admilhstration Administrative

Law Judge (AL)) for a de hovo hearing. cases

involving $2,000 or morelcan eventually be

appealed to a federal court. For more details on

I ' the Part A administrative hnd judicial process, see
the next section.

How do Medicare benefi~iaries appeal other

decisions made about Palrt A Hospital

Insurance?

I

Appeals of all other Medicare Part A decisions
are initially handled by M~dicare intermediaries. The intermediary is a priv~te insurance company

with which the federal govfrnment contracts to

make coverage and payment decisions for Part A.

In Georgia, the Part A intetmediary is Blue Crossl

Blue Shield, P.O. Box 9048l Columbus, Georgia
, 31908, (706) 3i2-4082. I

If a beneficiary disagree~ with the intermediary's initial decision, he or she may request a reconsideration ~y the intermediary. The request can be submitted 9irectly to the
intermediary or sent through the local Social

Security Office. The time lirpit for filing for recon-

sideration is sixty days, altpough exceptions can

be granted for good cause. jThe reconsideration is

a paper review by an employee of the intermediary

other ,than the person who made the initial deci-

sion.

I

If the beneficiary disagre~s with the

intermediary's reconsideration decision and the
amount in question is $10~ or more, the benefi-

ciary may request a de novo hearing before a

Social Security Administrati:on Administrative Law

Judge (AL)). The time limit for requesting a

hearing is 60 days. T,he ben1Ieficiary may be represented by an attorney ar other advocate. The

ALJ hearing process is extrebely helpful for the

few Part A beneficiaries wh~ use it. Fifty to 60

percent of Part A hearings a~e decided in favor of

the beneficiary.13

I

A Part A claimant may request review of the

I ' ALl's decision by the Departtnent of Health and Human Services Departmen~l Appeals Board (DAB). A request must be filed within sixty days
of the ALJ decision.

Federal court judicial review of Part A decisions



I

are avaIlable pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 405(g). The

case must be filed within 60 days of receiving the
DAB decision, and there must be at least $1,000 in controversy ($2,000 when a PRO decision is being appealed).
Attorney's fees are available under both the Social Security Act and the Equal Access to Justice Act. Under the Social Security Act, up to 25 percent of any benefits won for the client may be awarded to the attorney for representation during the administrative hearing and federal court proceedings. Attorney's fees can be obtained under the Equal Access to Justice Act for representation during the judicial review if the claimant prevails and the government's position was not substantially justified.
How do Medicare beneficiaries appeal Part B decisions?
Part B appeals are submitted to the Part B carrier, the insurance company that processes and pays Part B claims. In Georgia, the Medicare Part B carrier is Aetna Insurance Company, P.O. Box 3018, savannah. Georgia 31402-3018. 1(800)727-0827. If a beneficiary disagrees with the decision on a claim, he or she has six months to ask the carrier to review its decision. 14 Fifty percent of Part B denials are reversed upon carrier review. IS
For claims of $100 or more, the next appeal stage is to request a hearing before an employee of the carrier. 16 The hearing request much be made within six months of the carrier review decision. These hearings are much more informal than Social Security Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearings. Nevertheless, the claim reversal rate is nearly fifty percent. 17 Carrier hearing decisions can be appealed to a Social5ecurity Administration Administrative Law Judge (AL}) when the amount in question is $500 or more.
Part B claimants with more than $1,000 in controversy may seek judicial review in federal court. Attorney's fees are available to the same extent as for Part A judicial reviews.
How does someone enroll in Medicare? Anyone eligible for Medicare Part A because he
or she is 65 and older and receiving Social Security benefits,or Railroad Retirement benefits, or has been receiving Social Security disability benefits for 24 months is automatically enrolled in both Part A and Part B. No application is needed. A Medicare card is mailed about three months before
To Medicare eligibility begins. decline coverage
under Part B, these enrollees must contact the

83

Social Security Administration. Instructions come with the'Medicare card.
Those eligible for Medicare Part Aat no cost because they require regular dialysis or kidney transplant, and people 65 and older who are not .receiving Social Security but are eligible to "buy~ in" to Medicare'Part A, must apply. Application is made through the Social Security Administration. A list of local Social Security Office addresses and phone numbers is included on page 102.
Those who need to apply for Medicare get the best rates by enrolling during their initial enrollment period-the three months before and after becoming Medicare eligible-age 65 or when the need for regular dialysis or a kidney transplant occurs. Coverage begins immediately and the premiums are lower than if one waits to enroll later.
A general enrollment period is held each year from January 1 through March 31. However, Medicare coverage does not begin until the July following enrollment. Part A premiums are 10 percent higher than the cost during general enrollment. Pan B premiums increase 10 percent for each 12-month period the person is not covered by a current e~ployer's health insurance and could have enrolled in Medicare Part B but 4id not.
Those who delay enrolling in Pan B because they are covered by group health insurance provided by their current employer or their spouse's current employer are not penalized for late enrollment. They may enroll at any time while covered by an employer group health plan'or during a special eight-month open enrollment period that begins the month their employment ends or the month they are no longer entitled to group health insurance, whichever comes first.
1 National Senior Citizens Law center (1991). 2 Legal Counsel for the Elderly (1990). Another excellent source is AARP/LGAL U:luNSEL FOR THE ELDERLY, MEOICARE TRAINING MODULE. All these practice manuals provide excellent footnoting to the Medicare statute and regulations, This chapter provides an overview of Medicare eligibility, services and appeal procedures. These practice manuals provide citations to the relevant law. 3 Generally, people are eligible for Social Security old age or disability benefits if they or their spouse worked at least 40 quarters in work covered by Social Security. The forty quarters can be in one stretch-ten year~r can be accumulated over a longer period of time for people who move in and out of the work force. Less stringent quarters of coverage rules apply to younger workers who become disabled and unable to work. 4 ' This includes federal civil service employees who are age 65 or older who became eligible for federal retire-

ment benefits after January I, 1983, and state or local '
0 government employees age 65 or older who were newly
hired after April 1,1986. ,5 The premium can also be paid by cash or personal

check. The monthly Part B premium is $43.80 per .

month in 1998.

.

6 In 1998, the monthly premium charges for Part A are

$311 per month for those with less than 30 quarters of

Medicare covered employment and $187 per month for

those with 30 to 39 hours of covered employment.

7 See Duggan v. Bowen, ~91 F.Supp. 1487,

1511 (D.D.C. 1988).. 8 Stephenson v. Shalala, 81 F.3d 350 (9th Cir. 1996).

9 Most medical beneficiaries are eligible to enroll in

Medicare+Choice. The only enrollment requirements are

that the beneficiary have both Part A and Part B, not '

have end stage renal disease, and not be receiving

hospice care.

10 This benefit is limited to a maximum of 365 days of

additional hospital care during the policyholder's

lifetime.

11 For example, services provided between October 1,

1991 and September '30, 1998 must be submitted by

December 31, 1999.
12 PROs also respond to requests for review of hospital

decisions or reconsideration of PRO decisions. They

investigate individual patient complaints about care

received in a hospital. If you are admitted to a Medicare

participating hospital, you will receive"An Important

Message From Medicare" which explains the rights of

Medicare hospital patients. 13 ALFRED CH/PUN AND WALTER KEENAN, MEDICARE: A PRAcncE GU/DE (National Senior Citizens Law center,

0

(997),24.

,

i 4 This paper review is similar to the reconsideration

stage for Part A claims.

15 ALFRED CHIPUN AND WALTER KEENAN, MEDICARE: A PRAcnCE

GUIDE (National Senior Citizens Law center, 1997),26.

16 To reach the $100 amount, all disputed claims in a

six month period can be aggregated.

17 ALFRED CHIPUN AND WALTER KEENAN, MEDICARE: APRAcnCE

GUIDE (National Senior Citizens Law center, 1991),27.

o

84




I
SOCial Security



Social Se(l:urity Disability Benefits (SSDI)



What is the Definition of Disability? Disability under soci~l Security is based on a
person's inability to wo~k. A person will be considered to have a disability if he/she is unable to do any kind of work for which he/she is suited and his/her disability is expected to last for at least a year or to result in death.

What is the Social secJrity Disability Benefits .

Program?

I-

This is a federal program administered by the

Social Security Administration where people who

meet eligibility criteria rJceive cash benefits based

upon their work history hnd other eligibility

criteria.

Who can receive Social Security disability

benefits?

A person can receive ~ocial Security disability

benefits at any age if he/she meets other eligibility

requirements. If a persori is receiving disability benefits at age 65. his/h~r disability benefits

become retirement benefits, although the amount

remains the same.

I

Certain members Q/a '1edpient'sfami(y also

mqy qualjfyfor benifits on his/her record. They

include:

.

\.

An unmarried son o~ daughter, including an

adopted child, or. in some cases, a stepchild or grandchild. The child mu~t be under age 180r

under age 19 if in high sthool full time.

An unmarried son orldaughter. age 18 or

older, if he or she has a disability that started before age 22. (If a child ~ith a disability under

age 18 is receiving benefits as a dependent of a

worker who is retired, dedeased or has a disability,

I

someone should contact Social Security to have his

.

I

or her checks continued at age 18 on the basis of.

disability.)

I

.

A spouse who is age 62 or older, or any Cige if

he or. she is caring for a ctiild who is under age 16

I . . or who has a disability an~i~ also receiving

checks.

.

..

Cenainfami(y memberS! m'f)' qualityfor disabil-

ily benffitsffa redpient should die. They include: A widow or widower with a disability who is
age 50 or older. The disability must have statted before the recipient's death or within seven years after their death. (If a former recipient's widow or widower caring for their children receives Social Security checks. she or he is eligible if the onset of the disability occurs before those payments end or within seven years after they end.)
Disability Benefits for People with HIV Infection
A person with HIV infection or AIDS may also qualify for disability benefits when he/she is no longer able to work. Some people with HIV infection that has not progressed to AIDS have Just as severe a disability as a person with AIDS, therefore, they are just as likely to qualify for disability . benefits. For more information ask for the booklet,
A Guide to Sodal Security and SSI Disability
Benffitsfor People with HIV ITJfeetion (Publication No. 05-10020).
Rules for Persons who are Blind!or VISUally Impaired
A person is considered to be blind under Social Security rules if vision cannot be corrected to better than 20/200 in the better eye. or if he/she has a visual field of 20 degrees or less, even with a corrective lens.
There are a number of special rules for persons who are blind. The rules recognize the severe impact of blindness on a person's ability to work. For example, the earnings limit in 1999 for people who are blind is $1,110 which is substantially higher than the limit for workers who are not blind but have other disabilities. This figure changes annually~ For current figures and other information on specIal rules for person who are
blind, ask for the booklet, !IYou Are Blind. ..How
We Can Help (Publication no. 05-10052).
,Work Requirements To qualify for Social Security disability benefits,

87

a person must work long enough, recently enough, and pay taxes into Social Security in order to get benefits. As a person works and pays taxes, they earn Social Security "credits." Family members who qualify for benefits on a recipient's work record do not need work credits. A person can have unearned income and resources of any amount and still collect disability insurance. This . program is not based on a person's resour~es. It is based on the fact that a person has a disability which is preventing himlher from earning income through work..
In 1998, a person who worked and paid Social Security taxes earned one credit for each $700 in earnings they made, up to a maximum of four credits per year. (The amount of money needed to earn one credit goes up every year.) The number of work credits needed for disability benefits depends on a person's age at the onset of the disability. Younger people need fewer credits to be' eligible for disability benefits or for their family members to be eligible for survivors benefits if they die. The rules are as follows:
Bifore age 24 - A person may qualify if they have six credits earned in the three- year period ending with the onset of the disability. .
Age 24 - 31 - A person may qualify if he/she has credit for having worked half the time between age 21 and the time on onset of the disability. For example, if a person has the onset of a disability at age 27, he./she would need credit for three years of work (12 credits) out of the past six years (between age 21 and age 27).
Age 31 or older- In general, a person will need to have the number of work credits shown in the chart shown below. Unless a person is blind, at

Bom after t 929. Onset of Disability at Age
31 tRr.ougtl42 , 44 46 48 50
52 54 S6 58
60
62 or older

Credits Nee4ed
20 22 - 24 26
28
30 '32 34 36 38 40

least 20 of the credits must have been earned in

the 10 years immediately before the onset of the

disability.

-

o

.What is provided7

Eligible persons receive a monthly check. The

amount of the check is determined by the amount

that the person has paid into their Social Security

liust fund while they worked over the years. A

person will be automatically enrolled in Medicare

after they have been receiving disability benefits .

for two years.

.

Medicare has two parts-hospital insurance and

medical insurance. Hospital insurance helps pay

hospital bills and some follow-up care. The taxes a

person paid while they were working financed this

coverage, so it's premium free if he/she is an

eligible person. The other part of Medicare, medi-

cal insurance, helps pay doctors' bills and other

.services. Aperson pays a monthly premium for

this coverage if he/she wants it. Most people have

both parts of Medicare.

,

If a person gets Medicare and has low income

and few resources, their state may pay their

Medicare premiums and, in some cases, other

"out-of-pocket" Medicare expenses such as deduetibles and co-insurance. To determine if a person qualifies, contact your state or local TANF

o

office or other Medicaid agency. For more general

information about the program, contact Social

Security and ask for the leaflet, Medicare Savings

Jor Qualjfied Benciaries (HCFA Publication No.

02184).

.

How SSA Determines Disability

The process used to determine disability is a

step-by-step process involving five questions.

They are:

1. /s the person working? If a person is working

and their earnings average more than $700 a

month, he/she generally cannot be considered to

have a disability for Social Security purposes.

2./s the person:s" condition severe? A person's

impairment must interfere with basic work-related

activities for hislher claim to be considered.

3. /s the conditionJound in the list Q/disabling

impairments? The Social security Administration

maintains a list of impairmentS for each of the

major body systems that are so severe they automatically mean that a person is considered by Social Security to have a disability. If a person's

o

condition is not on the list, then a determination

must be made if it is of equal severity to an

impairment on the list. The burden of proof of

88



disability is on the' applicant, and complete docu-

Social security's rules for determining eligibility

mentation of disabilitY is crucial. 'lest results or

differ from those in other government and private

findings that a personlhas a disability by schools, programs. However, a decision made by another

vocational counselorsJ etc., do not necessarily

agency and the medical reports it contains may be

mean that Social security will find the person to

considered in determining whether a person is

have a disability. The knore proof a person produces the better. If a p~rson's condition is of equal

determined to have a disability under Social Security rules.

impairment as a condipon on the list, their claim is

Once a decision is reached on a person's claim,

approved. If it is not, the SSA goes to the next

he/she will receive written notice from the Social

step.

.1

.

4. Can a person do the work he/she did

Security Administration. If a person's claim is approved, the notice will show the amount of his/

previously? If a persorh condition is severe, but

her benefit and when payments start. If it is not

not at the same or equkI severity as an impairment I
on the list, then the SSA must determine if it interferes with the per~ort's ability to do the work
I
he/she did in the last 15 years. If it does not, the I
person's claim will be denied. If it does, the person's claim will be ~onsidered further.

approved, the notice will explain why. If a person is still determined to have a disabil-
ity by Social Security at the age of 65, his/her disability benefits stop. He/she will receive regular Social Security benefits for retirement instead.

5. Can a person do aTV' other type Q/work? If a person cannot do the ~ork he/she did in the last

How to Apply A person should apply at any Social Security

15 years, then SSA looks to see if he/she can do

office as soon as soon as the onset of the disabil-

any other type of workl SSA considers a person's

ity. A person may file by phone, mail or by visiting

age, education, past w6rk experience and transfer- the nearest office. Remember that Social Security

rable skills, and they rJview the job demands of

disability benefits will not begin until after five full

occupations as determihed by the Department of Labor. A person may b~ required to comply with a

months after Social Security recognizes the onset of the disability. This "waiting period" begins the

referral to the Georgia Division of Rehabilitative Services. If a person ~not do any other kind of

first full month after the' date Social Security determines as the onset of the disability. Contact

work, hislher claim will be approved. If a person

information for Social Security Offices follows this

can do another kind of!work, his/her claim will be section.

denied.

Getting in Touch

filing Your Claim

.

The Social Security Administration offers

To mea claim for benefits with the Social

several ways to get in touch. call, visit, surf the

Security Administratiori (a person can file for retroactive benefits for ~p to one year), a person

net, FAX or write Social Security. Call call SSA's toll free number, 1-800-772-

must complete an applidation. Applications can be 1213, from 7 a.m. to 7 p~m., Monday through

taken over the phone fdr people who cannot travel I
to the office. (See page 101 in this resource guide for your local Social sec~rity Administration

Friday. A representative will answer'questions, provide information about Social Security programs, mail publications, or make an appointment

office.) A person should be prepared with the

at the local office for an in-person visit.

necessary materials bef6re calling the Social

Social security lines are busiest early in the .

Security Administration! Additional medical

week and early in the month, so if the business

information may be needed before the Disability
Determination Services team can decide a person's
case. If it is not availabl~ from a person's current

can wait, it's best to call at other times. By using a touch-tone phone, a person can access recorded
information and services 24 hours a day, including

medical sources, he/she !may be asked to take a

weekends and holidays.

special examination callJd a "consultative exami-

If a person is deaf or hearing impaired, he/she

.nation." A person's doctpr or the medical facility

can call SSA's toll:free 1TY number, 1-800-325-

where he/she has been treated is the preferred source to perform this ~amination. Social Security

0778, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. "

will pay for the examination or any other addi-

If a person is blind, has a visual impairment, or

tional medical tests a person may need, and for

certain travel expenses r~lated to it.

..

I

!
i

cannot read print, they can call SSA's Braille Services at 410-965-6414. Information is avail-
89

able'in braille or large print and on computer disk

or cassette tape.

Visit SSA:5 Home Page. Social security's

Internet home page http://www.ssa.gov includes-

information about programs and publications,

an on-line request for a copy of Social Secu-

rity Personal Earnings and Bent Estimate

Statement (PEBES),

an application form for a new or replacement .

Social Security card, and

links to local office~ who have home pages.

Tty SSA:5 FAX Catalog. If a person has a touch-

tone phone and access to a fax machine, he/she

can use SSA's FAX Catalog. Call tollftee 1-888-

475-7000 to get an index or request copies of

publications in several languages. When a person

calls. a voice menu leads him/her through the

steps to receive information. When calling, please

have the FAX number to which information

should be sent.

.

Write. Addresses of SSA's local offices are listed

on page 102 in this Guide and in the phone book

blue pages under "U.S. Government." Or, write to

the office of Public Inquiries at Social security

Administration, Office of Public Inquiries, Room.

4-C-5 Annex, 6401 Security Blvd., Baltimore, MD

21235.

How to Speed Up a Claim The claims process for disability benefits is
generally longer than for other types of Social Security benefits - from 60 to 90 days. It takes longer to obtain medical information and to asSess the nature of the disability in terms of a person's ability to work. However, the process can be shortened by bringing certain documents (or having them on hand to mail or take in later if application is by telephone) and by helping the agency get any other medical evidence needed to show the person meets Social Security'S definition of a person with a disability. These include:
the Social Security number and proof of age for each person applying for payments; ('Ibis includes the person's spouse and children if they are applying for benefits.)
names, addresses and phone number of doctors, hospitals, clinics and institutions that treated the person and dates of treatment;
names of all medications the person is taking; medical records from the person's doctors, therapists, hospitals, clinics and caseworkers; laboratory and test results; a summary of where the person worked in the past 15 years and the kind ~f work he/she did;

a copy of the person's W-2 Form (Wage and
o lax Statement), or if he/she is self- employed, his/
her federal tax return for the past year; and
dates of prior marriages if the person's spouse is applying.
Do not delay filing for benefits just because a person does not have aU of the information needed. The SOcial Security office will be glad to help obtain necessary documentation.

Reviewing a Person's Disability

A person's benefits will continue as long as he/

she is considered by Social security to have a .
disability. However, a person's case will be re-

viewed periodically to determine if his/her condi-

tion continues to meet Social Security's definition

of disability. The frequency of the reviews depends

on the expectation of recovery.

If medical improvement is "expected," a case'

will normally be reviewed within six to 18 months.

If medical improvement is "possible," a case

will normally be reviewed no sooner than three

years.

If medical improvement is "not expected," a

case may be reviewed no sooner than seven years.

What can cause Benefits 1b Stop7 There are two things that can cause the SSA to

o

decide that a person no longer meet Social

Security's definition of a person with a disability

and to stop your benefits.

Disability benefits wiD stop if a person works

at a level we consider"substantial." Usually,

average earnings of $700 or more a month are

considered substantial.

Disability benefits would also stop if SSA

determined that a person's condition has improved

to the point that it no longer meets Social

security's defmition of disability.

A person must promptly report any improve-

ment in hislher condition, a return to work and

certain other events as long as he/she is receiving

benefits.

Going Back to Work
Benffits While You Work. Most people would preler to work than tIy to Dve on disablUty benefits. There are a number of special rules that provide cash benefits and Medicare while a person
0 attempts to work. The SSA caDs these rules "work
incentives~" Become familiar with these disability work incentives so they can be used to advantage.
If a person is receiving Social security disability benefits. the following work incentives apply:

90



Trial Work Period- For nine months (not necessarily consecuti~e). a person may earn as

much as he/she can Without affecting his/her

benefits. (The nine m'onths of work must fall within a five-year pe~iod before the trial work

period can end.) A trial work month is any month

in which a person ear'ns more than $200. After the trial work period end~, a person's work is evalu-

ated to see if it is ..substantial." If a person's

earnings do not average $700 a month, benefits

will continue for a three-month grace period

before they stop. I

.

Extended Period of Eligibi!ity- For 36 months

after a successful triallwork period. if a person has

a disability, he/she will be eligible to receive a

monthly benefit with06t a new application for any

month his/her earning,s drop below $700..

Deductions for Impairment Related Expenses-

Work expenses relate~ to a person's disability will

be discounted in figur~ng whether his/her earnings constitute substantial ~ork.

. Medicare ContinuJtion- a person's Medicare

coverage will continuelfor 39 months beyond the

trial work period. If a Rerson's Medicare coverage

stops because of his/hbr work, he/she may pur-

chase it for a monthly premium.

For more information about Social Security and 551 work incentives. a~k for a copy of the booklet,

Working While Disabldd ... How We Can Help

(Publication No. 05-lOb95). .

More information cah be obtained 24 hours a

day by calling Social stkurity's toll-free number: 1-800-772-1213. Betw1Ieen the hours of 7 a.m. and

7 p.m. on business days, this line connects to a . I
service representative. Pre-recorded information

and services are also aJailable during and after

business hours. See page 101 for the location of

and contact information for the Social Security

office nearest you.


91

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
o \

\

Be prepared with the necessary materials before calling the Social Security Administration. A person's benefit date, if approved, will begirt with the first call to begin the application process.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program. It is administered by the Social Security Administration. It provides monthly income to people who are older or blind or who have disabilities and have financial need. If a person is approved by SSI he/she will automatically be enrolled in the Medicaid program. However, some people who do not qualify for SSI can quality for Medicaid.
Persistence andJollow-through are important in obtaining 55! bents.
CHILDREN, SOCIAL SECURITY, AND 551 There are three ways a child might be eligible
for benefits from Social Security or SSI. The three kinds of benefits are:
551 Benefits for Children- These are benefits payable to children with disabilities under age 18 who have limited income and resources, or who come from homes with limited income and re,sources.
Social security Dependents Benefits- These are benefits payable to children under the age of 18 on the record of a parent who is collecting retirement or disability benefits from Social SecuritY, or survivors benefits payable to children tinder the age of 18 on the record of a parent who has died.
Although children under age 18 who are eligible for these benefits might have a disability, the administrator does not need to consider their disability when deciding if they qualify for Social Security dependent's or survivor's benefits. However, when a child who is getting a dependent's or a survivor's benefit from Social S~curity reaches age 18, those benefits generally stop unless one of the following conditions is met:
The child is a full-time student in an elementary or high school. In this case, benefits continue

until age 19; or The child has a disability. In this case benefits
can continue as long as the child continues to have a disability, even into his or her adult years.
Social security Benefits for Adults With Disabilities Since Childhood- Social Security Dependents Benefits normally stop when a child reaches age 18 (or 19 if the child is a full-time student). However, those benefits can continue to be paid into adulthood if the child has a disability. To qualify for these benefits, an individual must be eligible as the child of someone who is getting Social Security retirement or disability benefits. or of someone who has died, and that child must have a disability that began prior to age 22.

Eligibility for "Adult Children" with disabilities.

The SSA evaluates the disability of an adult

child (age 18 or older) who is applying for Social

Security for the'first time, or who is being con-

verted from a Social Security dependent child's

benefit, by using adult disability criteria. Briefly,

an adult must have a physical or mental impair-

ment' or combination of impairments, that is

expected to keep him or her from doing any

"substantial" work for at least a year or is ex-'

peeted to result in death. (Generally a job that

pays $700 or more per month is considered'

substantial.)

,

The individual's condition is compared to a

listing of impairments that are considered to be

severe enough to prevent an individual from

working for a year or more. If the individual is not

working ,and has an impairment that meets or is

equal to a condition on the list, then he or she is '

considered to have a disability for Social Security

purposes.

If the agency cannot match the person's impair-

ment with one of the listings, then it assesses his

or her ability to perform the same type of work he

or she did in the past (if any). If the person cannot

do that work, or does not have any past work

history, then the agency considers his or her

ability to do any kind of work he or she is suited

o
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92



for (based on age, education and experience). If,

considering all these faFtors, a person is found to

be unable to do any substantial work, then he or

she would qualify to dikbility benefits from Social

Security.

I

'

SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY '

INCOME BENEFITS FOR CHILDREN

WITIi DISABILITIES

SSI is a program thatI pays monthly benefits to

people with low income~ and limited assets who

are 65 or older, who ar~ blind or have a disability.

I

-

Children can qualify if they meet SOcial Security's

definition of blindness br disability and if their 'income and assets fall ~ithin the eligibility guide-

lines.

I

As its name implies, Supplemental Security

income supplements a pbrson's income up to a

certain level.

'I

'

What is provided for children?
"In 1998, the maximutn federal payment is $494 a month for an individukl depending on the parents' income level. Eyen if a child only qualifies for a minimal amount of SSI, receiving this will still qualify him/her to rkeive Medicaid.
Through SSI, the SodhI Security Administration shares the U.S. Departmbnt of Education's commitment to supporting ~ansition-age students as they prepare for entry infO the wor~force. Providing monthly cash payme,nts, SSI can be a valuable resource to eligible transition students and their
I
families. Students receiving 551 may also be
eligible to use the SSI pr6gram's work incentives (See section on SSI Wor~ Incentives for more details).

Eligibility Criteria

,

Eligibility requirements for SSI benefits are

established by the sodallsecurity Act and its

regulations. For children, eligibility requirements

are:

I

Child under the age Qf18 or under the age Q/

22 and a student regularlY attending schCXJI or ,

college or training that is, designed to prepare the

personfor a p({J'ingjob.

Finanda!!y Neeqy: A child must meet different

income eligibility requirements in order to receive

SSI benefits depending ort whether the student is under 18 years of age (orIlunder the age of 22 and

still a student in regularlYj attending school or

college or training that is tlesigned to prepare the
person for a paying job rile. childhood eligibility])

or 18 rears and older (and not attending school or

college or training that is designed to prepare the person from a paying job [I.e. adult eligibility]). The income and resources of parents of students under 18 are considered in determining income eligibility for SSI benefits. Income and resource requirements vary depending on the number of parents and children in the household. A general estimate is that two parents with one child with a disability and another who does not have a disability can earn about $34,080.
Rulesfor Children Under 18. Most children do not have their own income and do not have many assets. However, when children under age 18 live at home (or are away at school but return home' occasionally and are subject to parental control), SSA considers the parent's income and assets when they decide if the child qualified. They refer to this process as "deeming" of income and assets. Check with a Social Security Office about a child's specific situation and for a full explanation of the "deeming" process. The calculations for countable earned and countable unearned income and countable resources are complicated and are best done in conjunction with a Social Security worker. An example of the maximum amount a family could be earning and still receive minimum 5SI for their child is $34,080 a year (in 1998) for a family of two parents, a child with a disability and another child.
Rulesfor Children 18 and Older. When a child turns 18, the parent's income and resources are no longer a consideration. As a result, a number of children who did not qualify for 5SI benefits meet the income eligibility requirement when they reach age 18. However, if a child with a disability who is getting 551 turns 18 and continues to live with his or her parenHs), but does not pay for food or shelter, a lower payment rate may apply.
Blind or With a Disablllty , Presumed Disability. The disability evaluation
process generally takes several months. But the , law includes special provisions for people (includ-
ing children) signing up for 551 disability whose condition iS'so severe that they are presumed to be disabled. In these cases, 551 benefits are paid for up to six months while the formal disability decision is being made. (Of course, these payments can be made only if the child meets the other eligibility factors described above.) Following are some of the disability categories in which 5SA presumes the child is disabled and makes immediate 551 payments:

93

HIV'lnfection
Blindness Deafness (in some cases) Cerebral palsy (in some Cases)
Down syndrome . Muscular dystrophy (in some cases) Significant mental deficiency Diabetes (with amputation on one foot) Amputation of two limbs Amputation of leg at the hip If 551 makes these special payments, and if they later decide that the child's disability is not severe enough to qualify for 551, the benefits do not have to be paid back. Disabiliry Eligibiliry. The law states that a child will be considered as having a disability if he or she has an extreme limitation in one broad area of function, or a marked limitation in two broad areas of function. To determine whether the child's impairment causes "marked and severe funetionallimitations," the disability evaluation team obtains evidence from a wide variety of sources who have knowledge of a child's condition and how it affects his or her ability to function on a day-to-day basis and over time. These sources include, but are not limited to, the doctors and other health professionals who treat the child, teachers, counselors, therapists and social workers. A finding of disability will not be based solely on a parent's statements or on the fact that a child is, or is not, .enrolled in special education classes. Another criteria that may qualify the child looks at whether the child is doing the everyday things most children of the same age do. For example, is the child at 24 months still unable to walk or is the
child. at to years old reading at a level of a 6-year
old? Social Security may conduct an "individualized functional assessment" to see how the child is developing or performing everyday tasks. Social Security will pay for these tests and other exams it needs.
Blindness or Visual Impairment: Social Security considers a child blind if, with corrective glasses, the child's vision is no better than 20/200 or less in the better eye with glasses or the child's visual field is 20 degrees or less. However, a child whose visual problems don't meet these standards can still qualify as "having a disability" if the prob. lems are severe and long-lasting.

TRANsmON PLANNING

0 Not just for adults entering or re-entering the
work force, the Social Security Administration, in

partnership with the Department of Education,

shares a commitment to supporting transition-age

students as they prepare for entry into the

workforce. Students receiving SSI benefits may

also use the 551 program's work incentives, which

are designed to increase their overall income while

engaging in employment during and after second-

ary education. SSI work incentives available to

transition age students with disabilities are:

Earned Income Exclusion; Student Earned Income

Exclusion (SEIE); Impairment-Related Work

Expense (IRWE); Plan for Achieving Self Support

(PASS); and Blind Work Expenses (BWE). While

not as applicable to secondary education students,

the work incentive Property Essential for Self-

support (PESS) may also be considered in the

transition planning process as a postsecondary

option.

Establishing a collaborative relationship with

other professionals in applying for SSI benefits

and work incentives is important. Various mem-

bers of the student's Individual Educational

Plan (IEP)/transition team may have different. knowledge about the student. Engaging all of

0

these individuals at some point in the SSI applica-

tion and re-determination process will help pro-

vide the SSA with a detailed and complete picture

of the student.

SSI Work Incentives
Incorporating ssi work incentives into a

student's IEP/transition plan can provide excellent

opportunities for students, parents, and other IEP/

transition team members to explore employment

opportunities while the student is still in school.

These incentives can also benefit students after

they are out of school.

To be eligiblefor SS/'work incentives, a student

mustfirst be receiving SSI benfllts and be engaged

in.paid work experiences (CBVE) as part Q/their

transition plan. Thug-ore, it.is important to

include work incentives ina student's transition

plan in the very earlY stages Q/the process.

This will assist students, parents, and other IEP

transition plan members in identifying specific

steps that will be required to allow students to establish post school goals and objectives and

O

participate in school-sponsored employment

opportunities. SSI work incentives will, in most

cases, allow students to increase their monthly

income while still retaining their SSI benefits,

94



including Medicaid.

If. for example. an individual is receiving the

School personnel can assist students and

maximum SSI benefit rate of $494 each month.

parents in the SSI appli6tion process by' helping

the individual's monthly earnings from paid

to complete the application form and referring parents to the appropri~te local SSA representa-

employment would have to exceed $1073 before the SSI benefit program would cease and the

tives.

I'

,

One ifthe most signl!icant roles school person-

individual would exit the SSI program - if no other work incentives apply. This maximum income

nel can play is providirig SSA with iTJlonnation

level would increase if the individual accessed any

that documents observed student limitations in a

of the other SSI program work incentives.

van'ety ifsettings including school and commu-

nity training and emplJyment sites.

Student Earned Income Exclusion (SEIE)

School staff can help!gather appropriate school,

Student Earned Income Exclusion (SEIE) allows

social, and medicallccords, both past and present; and. make a list of all p~rsons SSA may need to contact. Short written r~ports with formal records that include specific ex~mples of the student's functional limitations a~e extremely important.

a person with a disability under age 22 and regularly attending school to exclude up to $400 of earned income per month before applying the Earned Income Inclusion (above). The two exclusion may be used in combination. The maximum

Parents can also develop their own anecdotal

annual exclusion is $1620. Please note that SEIE

records on their sO'n/datighter's performance at

must be applied bifore the general and earned

home. School personnellcan provide some guid-

income exclusion.

ance in developing these records themselves and in obtaining them from ~mployers. job-site supervisors. or coworkers of ~tudents in community work settings. It is help~ul when school staff and

Where to Apply Students must apply for a SEIE at their local
SSA office. The student must submit a state of

parents keep a diary of ~ctivities and functional

school attendance, a statement of employment.

limitations of students they observe over time.

and wage receipts periodically. Local SSA office

Parents will also want to keep track of all

'procedures differ slightly as to how often these

medical records includink doctors who have seen

statements are required. Students should contact

the student for hospital. Imedical and prescription

their local SSA office for complete details. Look in

records including reasons for medications. Record the listing for Social Security Administration

hospital names, dates. attending doctors, and

Offices for contact information or call 1-800-772-

reasons for hospitalizatibn. ' School personnel can aI lso help students and

1213.

parents with the redetenhination process of SSI eligibility. which is rcqui~ed once the student

Blind Work Expenses SSA has special rules for people who are blind.

reaches age 18 since thete are differences in the

I

,

eligibility criteria for adults (18 and over) and

including allowing them to earn a higher income (Substantial Gainful Activity, SGA) and still

children (under 18 years of age). .

maintain SSI eligibility. Blindness is defined as

central visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better

Earned Income Exclusion The earned income eX~lusion applies to all SSI

eye with best correction which has lasted or is expected to last a year or longer. Blind Work

program recipients. including any student earning wages from a school-sponI sored employment

Expenses (BWE) is a work incentive that allows a person who is blind to deduct certain expenses

program or other employtnent. Under this exclu-

needed to earn an income from their earned

sion. some earnings eachl month are not counted

income when determining SSI eligibility and

toward the specified SS) income limit ($700).

payment amount. For individuals who are blind,

There are three parts to this exclusion. The first is I
a general exclusion of $20 of monthly income from any source. The sec~nd part is an additional

the BWE work incentive is more advantageous than the IRWE. Examples of BWE include: Guide dog expenses; transportation; federal. state, and

$65 earned monthly incorrte exclusion. The third

local income taxes; social security taxes; attendant

+ pan is the exclusion of orie-half of all earnings
above the combined $20 $65 ($85) monthly as

care services; visual and sensory aids; translation , of materials into braiIJe; professional association

well. This is. for every twb dollars earned. one dollar is deducted from SSI l's payments.

fees; and union dues. For more information about Blind Work Expenses. please contact your local

SSA office.
95

Impairment-Related Work Expense (IRWE)

The cost of certain impairment-related items

and services that a person with a disability needs

to work can be deducted from gross earnings

through an IRWE incentive. When a person

requests an IRWE. consumers must verify that the

items or expenses incurred 'are related to their

disability and necessary for job performance.

Proof of payment must be submitted. Impairment-

related work expenses are deductible for SSI

payment purposes when:

"

The expenses enables a person to work.

The person, because of a severe physical or

mental impairment, needs the item or service for

which the expense is incurred in order to work.

The cost is paid by the person with a disabil-

ity and is not reimbursed from another source.

The expense is "reasonable" - it represents

the standard charge or the item or service in the

person's community.

The expense is paid in a month in which

earned income is received or work is performed

while the person used the impairment-related

item or service.

Individuals with disabilities may rely on IRWE

incentives throughout their entire lives. Work-

related expenses that are incurred by a student

while in secondary school are likely to continue

when they exit school. A. student interested in

applying for an IRWE incentive under the SSI

program should contact their local SSA office for

specific details and documentation requirements.

Plan for Achieving self Support (PASS) The plan for Achieving Self-support (PASS) is
a work incentive that allows an individual to set aside income and/or resources for a specified period of time to achieve a work goal. For example, an. individual may set aside money for postsecondary education, the purchase of jobcoaching support, personal transportation, jobrelated equipment. or to start a business. The income and/or resources set aside in a PASS do not count in determining SSI benefits. Nor may cash SSI benefits be used to support a PASS. When appropriate, a PASS may be used in conjunction with other SSI work incentives. The PASS"is similar to the IEP 'ltansition Plan: It establishes job-related goals and objectives. Because of these similarities, it is possible to incorporate a PASS into the IEP ~ransition plan. A transition student may benefit from a PASS while in school or upon exiting. If a student under age 18 cannot satisfy the SSI income eligibility

requirement only because his or her parents income is too high, the student may apply for a
o PASS incentive through which their parents can set
aside enough income to make the student eligible for SSI benefits.

The basic requirements for a PASS include: A feaSible and reasonable occupational goal.
A defmed timetable. The need for income or resources, other than SSI benefits, to be set aside.
An explanation of expenditures to be covered by the set-aside funds.
These programs provide empowerment for the individual with a disability in that he or she is the direct consumer of goods and services and thereby has more control over when such goods and .
services are delivered and by whom.

A student wishing to incorporate a PASS into

his/her transition program should:

Request assistance if needed from teachers,

counselors, or other IEP/transition team members.

Obtain the eight page PASS application,

instruction sheet, and SSA Publication Red Book

on Work Incentives in his/her school counseling

office, spedal education office, or from the local SSAOffice.

o

Gather all income and resource information

that will be required.

Identify the job goal and steps for achieving it

(which may be incorporated into the IEP/transition

plan).

Work with his/her Vocational Rehabilitation

Counselor to develop the plan.

Make and keep an appointment with the local

SSAoffice.

Complete the PASS application and submit it to

local SSA office.

Answer questions from the SSI-PASS cadre

about the application

The PASS should be considered during the IEP/

transition development process even if it is not to

be used while the individual is still a student. A

PASS may be used by any individual participating

in SSI at any age. Some students can benefit from a

PASS while they"are in school, and also after they

leave school to further their vocational goal by

purchasing additional training or transportation,

0-, for example. As part of the planning process, the
planning team may incorporate the future use of a PASS into the student's IEP transition plan. The

most likely candidates for a PASS incentive are

students who currently are receiving SSI benefits,

96

.'

want to work, and have work goals in their IEp,

,

I

are in school, or a training program or plan to

complete postseconda~ training, or plan to start

Property Essential to self-Support (PESS) PESS allows a person to exclude certain re-
sources which are essential to employment for

their own business.

self- support. For example, property which is used

in a trade or business or required by a person as

A PASS incentive can be used to support a number of expenses ,Irelated to employment

an employee is totally excluded when determining resources for SSI eligibility or payment determina-

goals, including: I

tion. While the PESS may have little application for

Thition, fees, books, and supplies for school

secondary transition students, it may have utility

or training programs. I

for some students when they enter the work force.

Supported emplo,Wllent services including a

For example, if a student who is trained in carpen-

job coach.

try is required to supply his or her own toolS

Attendant care.

under terms of employment, the value of these

Equipment and tools needed to work.

tools would not be counted as a resource.

Transportation.

What to do if benefits are denied:

A PASS incentive must: I Be specifically designed for the individual

Reconsideration If a claim is denied or there is disagreement

with a disability.

with any other decision made by the Social Secu-

Be in writing.

rityAdministration, the decision may be appealed.

Have a specific caFeer goal which the indi-

The Social Security office will help an applicant

vidual is capable of acttleving.

'

complete the paperwork.

Have a specific tinte limit for teaching the

There are four levels of appeal. If a person

goal.

I

disagrees with the decision at one level, he/she

Show what moneYI or other resources the

may appeal to the next level. A person has 60

individual will use to reach the g'oal.

Show how the monIey and' resources will be

used.

I

days from the time he/she receives the decision to file an appeal to the next level. The agency assumes that a decision is received five days after

Show how the money set aside in the PASS

the date on it, unless a person can show us that

will be kept separate frbm other funds, i.e., a

he/she received it later. For more information

separate bank account. \

about appeals, ask for the fact sheet, The Appeals

Be approved by th~ SSA.

Process (Publication No. 05-10041).

Be reviewed periodically to assure compliance.

Benefits are more frequently denied on first

I
Income and resources t~at are set aside in a PASS

application than on appeals and the probability that a person Will be approved may be greater as

are excluded under the SSI income and resources

he/she proceeds through the appeals process. It is

tests. An~v transitionsdJI den' t who receives SSI bents or could qualjfjfor them, can have a

usually worth the trouble to proceed through the appeals process.

PASS. A studentfor example. whose income

exceeds SSI requirements, mqy develop a PASS to maintain his or her SSI~ligibililJ' while pursuing

When Benefits Start: When a child's claim of disability is approved,

work relatedgoals.

he/she will receive his/her first Social Security

benefits starting with the sixth full month from

To receive a PASS an ,individual must complete a PASS application and ~ubmit it to the SSA office.

the date of onset of the child's disability. A booklet describing the responsibilities of a Social securitY

Each PASS is reviewed for approval by the local l beneficiary: What You Need To Know When You

pass cadre. This processl can take up to three

Get Disabili(y Bents (Publication No. 05-10153)

months to complete. Anyone may help a student

will be sent to successful applicants. Read this

develop a PASS, including special education

booklet carefully and keep it in a safe place with

teachers and other sch06l personnel, vocational

other valuable papers in order to refer to it when-

counselors, social workets, employers, and private ever questions arise. see page 101 for the location

PASS vendors. A distinct advantage of a PASS is

of the Social Security Office located closest to you.

that it allows the student to be proactive in secur1 09 necessary trammg. suI pport, or servIces to

enhance employment opportunities.

I

97

Supplemental Security Income Benefits for

Adults with Disabilities

0

What is provided?

.

SSI is a monthly cash benefit program run by

Social'Security and financed by the general rev-

enue funds of the U.S. Treasury. The Social Secu-

rity Administration provides a monthly check to

those who qualify for as much as $494 for one

.. person and $741 for a couple (1998 maximum; it

increases each year) or as little as $1, depending

on a person's income and resources. Even if an

adult only qualifies for a minimal amount of SSI,

receiving this maY' still qualify him/her to receive

Medicaid. Most people who get SSI also get food

stamps and Medicaid Assistance. Medicaid helps

pay doctor and hospital bills. For more information

about food stamps, ask Social Security for a copy

of the fact sheet Food Stamp Facts (Publication No.

05-10101.) For more information about Medicaid,

see the Medicaid section in this book (page 35) or

contact your local Department, of Family and

Children Services (DFCS) office (contact informa-

tion for DFCS offices is also listed in the Medicaid

section of this book, page 65).

Who is eligible? To be eligible for SSI, a person must be age 65 or
older, blind or have a disability, have limited resources and income and reside in the United States or the Northern Mariana Islands (except for the children of military personnel or studentS temporarily abroad).
A person must be a citizen or national of the United States.
Some non-citizens may be eligible, contact your local SSA office for more information.
May not leave the cou,ntry for an entire calendar month, no payment can be made for that month. Also, once a person has been outside the area for 30 or more consecutive days. payments cannot begin again until he/she has been back in the U.S. or the Northern' Mariana Island for 30 consecutive days.
Disability: A person age 18 or older is consid.ered to have a disability by SSA if he/she has a physical or mental impairment or combination of

impairments that keeps the person from working

and is expected to last at least a year or to result

in death.

Blindness: Social security considers a person to

have blindness if the person's vision is no better

than 20/200 or less in the better eye with glasses

or the person's visual field is 20 degrees. or less in

the better eye with the use of eyeglasses. How-

ever, a person whose visual problems don't meet

these standards can still qualify as "disabled" if

the problems are severe and long-lasting.
A person who qualjfiesfor 551 on the basis if

both age and disability or blindness can receive .

pqyments under whichever category is more

advantageous. For example a person who is 65

and disabled may receive a higher payment as a disabled recipient because of the additional income exclusions allowed for people with dis-

o

abilities. If a person qualified under more than

one eligibility category, Social Security can ex-

plain which is the most advantageous.

Presumed Disability. The disability evaluation

process generally takes several months. But the

law includes special provisions for people signing

up for SSI disability whose condition is so severe

that they are presumed to be disabled. In these

cases, S5I benefits are paid for up to six months,

while the formal disability decision is being made.

(Of course, these payments can be made only if

the person meets the other eligibility factors

described above.) Following are some of the

disability categories in which SSA presumes the

person is disabled and makes immediate SSI

payments:

HIV Infection

Blindness

Deafness (in some cases)

Cerebral palsy (in some cases)

Down syndrome Muscular dystrophy (in s,?me cases) Significant mental deficiency

o

Diabetes (with amputation on one foot),

Amputation of two limbs ,

Amputation of leg at the hip

98

If551 makes these specialpqyments, andIfthey
later dedde that the persbn :so disability is not I severe enough to qualjfyfl\or 55l the be.ndits do not have to be paid back. If a person does not meet the criteria for pre-
sumed disability and imrrlediate payment of benefits, then he/she mu~t meet disability the
I
criteria under SSA rules. SSA has developed
criteria for deciding if a pson is disabled under
the requirements of the SSI program.

Income and Asset LimilJor 551. A person is I
determined to be financially needy if he/she has

limited fncome and resourItes w. hich fall below the current allotted monthly income and resources set

by Social Security. The calfulations for countable

earned and unearned income and countable resources are complicated ~nd are best done in

conjunction with a Social Security worker. An

example could be

oeafrmnianxgimanumd satimlld~uecnetiavesiSnSgIleispaerrosuonnd

$1,024

per

month

and .

still I

receive

around

$1

of

551, depending also on what countable resources

she/he had.

I

.

By the term income the S5A means the money a
person has coming in sucJt as earnings, 50dal Secun"ty, or othergovernmknt checks, pensions, etc. Income also means "nbn-cash" items a person receives such as the value bf free food and shelter.

How much income a persoh can have and still get

I 551 depends on several fadors including whether
he/she works or not.

Resources are the things a person owns such as property, cash and bank accl ounts. A person may

be able to get SSI if the thirtgs he/she owns that

are countable are worth nolmore than $2,000 for

one person; or $3000 for a fouple. The SSA

doesn't count everything a person owns when

they decide if a person can receive SSI. For example, they don't count a peI rson's home and many of his/her personal b~longings; they usually

don't count a person's car depending on its use

and value; life insurance willi a face value of $1,500 or less, burial fund~ up to $1,500 and

burial plots for individual and immediate family do

I
not count toward the $2,000/$3,000 resource

limit.

I

RulesJor People 18 and (j)lder. When a person

turns 18, SSA no longer corisiders the parent's

.

I

income and assets deciding if he or she can get

SSl. A child who was not elikible for SSI before his or her 18th birthday because the parent's assets were too high may become ~ligible at 18. SSI .

makes monthly payments to' people who have low

incomes and few assets.

,

On the other hand, if a person with a disability

who is getting SSI turns 18 and continues to live

with his or her parent(s), but does not pay for

food or shelter, a lower payment rate may apply.

Note: Children as well as adults can get 551

bendits because Q{blindness or disability. 5ee the

section Q{SSl.for Children with DisabiUlies in this

guide (page 92)Jor more ilJformalion.

Other Requirements: A person must apply for all

benefits for which he/she may be entitled; pen-

sions, regular Social Security, etc. He/she must be

willing to accept vocational rehabilitation services

if he/she is under 65 and it is determined appro-

priate for his/her situation. A person must accept

treatment for alcoholism or drug addiction if that

is found to be the primary cause of his/her disabil-

ity.

If a person is not a citizen of the Uilited States

residing in the United States, some other rules

apply. Contact your local Social Security Adminis-

.tration office and ask for a Desktop Guide to 551

Eligibility RequirementsJor more detailed ilJforma-

lion in chart and listJorm (SSA Publication No.

05-11001 - February, 1998).

SOCIAL SECURIlY WORK INCENTIVES
Social Security has special rules, called Social Security Work Incentives, that help a person who would like to work but who is concerned about the effect this might have on his or her disability benefits. These rules permit a person to try working without risking a sudden loss of hislher .
monthly benefits or Medicare coverage. By following these special rules, individuals entering or reentering the work force now have the opportunity to try working while still maintaining cash benefits and medical coverage. These work incentives for adults are: Earned Income Exclusion; Student Earned Income Exclusion (SEIE), ImpairmentRelated Work Expense (IRWE); Plan for Achieving Self Support (PASS); Blind Work Expenses (BWE); and Property Essential for Self-support (PESS). These work incentives are the same as the work incentives that are available for students who are in transition from school to work and they are described in detail under the 1tansition Planning Section of this guide which begins on page 94. For more detailed information about specific work incentives, tum to the pages listed below:

Earned Income Exclusion (See page 95)

99

Student Earned Income Exclusion (SEIE) (See page 95)
Where to apply (See page 95)
Impairment-Related Work Expense (IRWE) (See page 96),
Plan for Achl~ving self Support (PASS) A PASS plan for adults is essentially the same
as that described for students on page 96. with the exception that adults will not be working with the assistance of school personnel or have an IEP. The basic requirements for a PASS include:
(See page 96) A person wishing to incorporate a PASS into his/her program should:
(Seepage 96) PASS may be used by any individual participating in SSI at any age. A PASS incentive can be used to support a number of expenses related to employment goals, including: A PASS incentive must:
(See page 97) , Property Essential to self Support (PESS)
(See page 97) What to do Ifbeneftts are denied1 Reconsideration
(See page 97) When Benefits Start
(See page 97)
100

o
o o

Social Sepuity Adminstration offices Contact Information

Rome 600 East First Street, Room 104 Rome, GA 30161 Phone: (706)'291'-5720 Fax: (706) 291-5689
Savannah 430 Mall Boulevard Savannah, GA 31405-4877 Phone: (912) 353-7197 Fax: (912) 353-9128
Southlake 6452 South Lee Street Morrow, GA 30260 Phone: (678) 422-1166 Fax: (678)-422-6789
Statesboro Northgate office center 127 N Main Street, Suite 104 Statesboro, GA 30458 Phone: (912) 764-7591 Fax: (912) 764-7155
Swainsboro 101 S. Circle Drive Swainsboro, GA 30401 Phone: (912) 237-6436 Fax: (912) 237-2751
ThomasviUe Federal Bldg. Room 203 404 N. Broad Street P.O. 'Box 1780 Thomasville, GA 31799 Phone: (912) 226-5078 Fax: (912) 226-4070

Valdosta Room 231, Fed. Bldg. 401 Patterson St. P.O. Box 1767 Valdosta, GA 31603 Phone: (912) 242-2595 Fax: (912) 244-5372
Vidalia 103 W First Street Vidalia, GA 30474 Phone: (912) 537-9365 Fax: (912) 538-1329
warner Robins
1228 Watson Boulevard' Warner Robins, GA 31093 Phone: (912) 328-1382 ' Fax: (912) 922-6270
Waycross 104 Federal Building 601 Tebeau Street P.O. Box 799 Waycross. GA 31502 Phone: (912) 283-9282 Fax: (912) 285-1580
Winder 11 7 W. Candler Street Winder, GA 30680 Phone: (770) 307-3798 Fax: (770) 868-8106

TIfton 212 N piuk Avenue P.O. Box 1527 TIfton, GA 31793 Phone: (912) 382-6457' Fax: (912) 382-0018

Toccoa 395 Stephen Circle Toccoa, GA 30577 Phone: (706) 886-1621 Fax: (706) 886-4909

1\Jcker 100 Crescent centre Pkwy., Suite 800 nicker, GA 30084 Phone: (770) 934-1320 Fax: (770) 938-2518

102

o
o
o

NOTES



103

NOTES
o
o
o
104

-I





/

Rehabilitation I



services



Division of Rehabilitation Services




, The Division of Rehabilitation Services

The Division of Reh~bilitation services (DRS)

,

I

provides opportunities for work and personal

independence for peoplb with disabilities. It is a

state program with offites throughout the counties

operated under the Geotgia Department of Human

Resouoces.

I

The DRS work programs simultaneously gener-

ate and conserve tax d9llars by assisting a person

with a disability to becqme an employed taxpayer.

This also provides employers in Georgia with a dependable source of q~alified employees. Services

include work readiness,! job analysis, accessibility

surveys, job. readiness, work adjustment, job

coaching and supportedl employment. Some

services are provided atlno cost. 11zefederal

Rehabilitation Act requires DRS to give priorifY to

those with the most sevk-e disabUitfes.

Rights. It is the respdnsibility of the DRS to

, ensure a person's rightsl A person has the right to:
apply for services I

to be evaluated to find out if DRS can provide

services . I

to know of any decisions which can affect his/

her case and the reasbns for them

to be considered for services no matter hislher race, skin color, type ~f disability, religion or

age, or what county alperson is from and a .

person's family is from, or whether a person is

male or female

I

to know information~bout him/her will be kept

private within the limits of the law to help plan hislher p~ogram of services

to know about important changes in his/her program before they haI ppen
to make an appeal of ~ DRS'decision

to ask for assistance ftom the Client Assistance

Program.

I

The Division of Rehabilitation services is also

responsible for making s*re a person has every

chance to succeed in hislher rehabilitation program and that DRS is bei~g fair and helpful. This

means that a person will be given every opportu-

nity t.o be advised of opti6ns and to make choices

throughout his/her vocational rehabilitation program.
During FY97 DRS adopted a new approach using teams consisting of a vocational counselor; an accoUnt representative (liaison to the business community); a work preparation technician; and assistive work technology expert; and a program assistant, based in 40 "hubs" throughout the state. An employment manager supervises each hub.
The employment services teams have begun to use state-of-the-art technology such as laptops, cellular phones and beepers to create a "virtual office environment" in the consumer's home or community, to better assess vocational potential and prepare individual work plans.
It is important to know that participation in a vocational rehabilitation program may affect a person's SOCial security Benefits (551 and SSm). For example, a person's benefits may be reduced, once he/she goes to work and earns income. For more detailed information about how a person's . benefits may be affected by going to work, call a
local Social 5ecurity office or their toll free number: 1-800-772-1213.
Most people with disabilities want to work and cooperate with vocational rehabilitation services during the course of their rehabilitation program. However, the law provides for the suspension of
Social Security benefits if a person fails to cooPerate with the vocational rehabilitation services agency and does not have a good reason for doing so.
The local Rehabilitation services office periodically sponsors forums/seminars and workshops on Social Security work incentives. see your vocational rehabilitation counselor for additional information. You may also see the section in this book on Work Incentives on page 94.
Other Benefit Information. It is important to understand that when a person goes to work benefits from Georgia Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (GTANF), Food Stamps and other benefit programs may be reduced or eliminated.

107

Vocational Rehabilitation Payment for services. Services received from and through the Division of Rehabilitation Services are dependent upon the availability of funds. The Division cannot pay any bills for which the Division has not issued prior written authorization.
Closure. A person's case may be closed after he/she has been employed successfully for 90 days.
Services After Closure. A person can request additional services after his/her case is closed if services are needed to keep you WORKING.
Responsibilities. Please be aware that DRS can deny a person's application, or close hislher case (stop services) if he/she does not follow through with responsibilities. Below are some of these responsibilities:
Keep appointments and sttV' in contact with t!J,e vocational counselor and other team members. It is important to keep all appointments. If a person can't keep an appointment, call ahead to change it. Give honest and complete il]formation. A person should be honest with hislher counselor and other members of the team. If a person does not want to work, teU himlher. Tell the counselor and other team members about a person's disabilitiesl abilities, education, jobs, work he/she likes or dislikes. Help the counselor, especially in obtaining medical and other records. Tell the vocational counselor about changes in a person's situation. TeUthe counselor about changes in a person's address, phone number, medical condition, Medicaid/Medicare, not wanting to work or continue with DRS, or other important changes/decisions in a person's life. Tell the counselor about changes in a person's SSI/Sodal security check and other changes in hislher ' finances. Return equipment/supplies DRS has bought if a person decides not to work or if hisl her case is dosed with the person not working. Help develop the Work Plan and work hard to complete it. 1eU the counselor what the person wants in hislher Work Plan. The person and his/ her counselor will work together to develop a work goal and work plan. If the person and hislher counselor can't agree on what to put in the Work Plan, he/she can talk to a supervisor or the Client Assistance Program (ask the counselor about this or'look in this book in the section on the Client Assistance Program on page 109. Work closely , with DRS staff to help the person get a job. When a person goes to work, tell the counselor his/her employer's name and address, his/her job title,

salary and if the job offers health insurance.
Do what's in the Work Plan and Cl1V' amend-
o ments (changes) to it. A person will receive and
should keep a copy of hislher Work Plan. A person should follow through with what he/she agrees to
do. Use other bendits. Money is limited and many Georgians with disabilities need services. Expect DRS to pay only what is needed to get a person . working. He/she must apply for and use other benefits like insurance, Social Security, Medicaid! Medicare, Pell Grant, HOPE scholarship, and VA benefits before DRS pays for certain services. Also, he/she must use his/her own money or any other funds available to himlher. Get written approval bifore expecting DRS to p'fY. DRS won't pay for services, supplies, or equipment unless a person first gets written approval from hislher counselor.

What is provided?

Competitive employment. Rehabilitation

counselors help Georgians with disabilities find

employment. Counselors also arrange vocational,

psychological and medical evaluations.

Rehabilitation services will pay for these visits.

o Sheltered employment can be arranged for
people who are severely disabled and who believe they are unable to work in a competitive labor

market

Georgia Industries for the Blind provides

training and employment in manufacturing and

packaging. The Business Enterprise program hires

people who are blind or visually impaired to

operate vending facilities around the state.

Independent Uving programs teach people

with disabilities the skills to become more self-

sufficient in their communities and improve the

quality of their lives. This often provides an

alternative to nursing home care. and allows many

caregivers to return to work,.

Th,rough a grant, the division helps people who

are blind and over 55 years old remain indepen-

dent Orientation and mobility training, rehabilita-

tion teaching, information and referral. and low

vision services are provided in five rural areas.

DRS and the Statewide Independent Living

Council have begun to transfer independent living

services to private service providers.

Roosevelt Warm Springs Institute for Reha, bilitatlon provides residential and outpatient
services and medical and vocational rehabilita-

o

tion, independent living skills training, education

and research.

108



Services and Consultation are provided to educate organizations about disabilities, work, disability-related law, ~nd resources. Seven regional Technology DJmonstration Centers provide computer bulletin boards, training and public awareness, and ~olicy development. Local DRS staff provide disability awareness seminars, ADA seminars, and cOfumunity presentations
across the state.

Specialized Services

The Georgia SensoliY Rehabilitation center in '

Atlanta offers rehabilitation and job training and ,I
placement for people who are blind and deaf.

Deaf/Hard of Hearibg Network -see

Resources, page 166 I

'

The Traumatic Brain Injury center provides

, services including evalJation, work adjustment

assistance and independent living skills for people with traumatic brain inj~ries.

Tools for Life providbs information and try

outs of adaptive equiprtient for peOple with

disabilities. Equipment Such as wheelchairs,

computers with braille keyboards, communication ,devices, assistive devic~s and adaptive equipment

for people with low visi6n are some examples of

the types of assistive tedhnology a person can learn about by calling 11800-497-8665 (TIT 404-

894-8608). The 1echnology Acc~1 ss Program helps people

gain access to the assistive work technology that is often critical to ensur~ that people with disabili-

ties are independent and employable. Rehabilita-

tion engineers assess, ptescribe, build, or modify

equipment used for work. Assistive work technol-

ogy services includes suth equipment as voice

activated computers, rarrtps, and print magnifiers.

A mobile technology unit is being piloted to provide on-site assessm~nt and manufacture

I ' assistive work technology equipment for people in
rural areas.

The Business Enterprise program provides employment for people ~~o are blind to operate

food service enterprises across the state earning

an average annual incorrie of$21,745.

'

Transition Services ate provided through a

collaborative agreement With the Department of Education. Additional co~nselors help students with disabilities,move fr~mschool to jobs. Fifty-

nine school distriets provide local funds which

allow DRS to draw dOWH redt:fitl funds for Uus

effort.

I

rf a person becomes a dient he/she will work

with a counselor to devel6p a plan' for his/her

rehabilitation program, this is called a individualized Written Rehabilitation Program (IWRP). This will include a person's goal of emploYI1lent, services he/she will receive to help reach this goal, and how the person and the counselor will work together to reach the goal.
A person can get funding for post-.secondary education at the undergraduate or even graduate level, if hislher goal is employment, if hislher IWRP is approved and it requires such education for the person to become employable at an entry level. Funding for education can indude tuition, housing, books, transportation costs, special ' , services, such as interpreters or readers, etc. A person must apply for all other state or federal help for which he/she may be eligible for schooling costs as well.
A person may be able to get funding for assistive devices (such equipment as wheelchairs, computers, van lifts, hearing aids, bath chair, etc.) if this is induded in his/her IWRP as something he/she needs to help obtain his/her goals for employment. As you can see, the IWRP is an extremely important part of the process of getting the help a person needs. Every effort should be made to make the person's IWRP as comprehensive as possible.
Eligibility Criteria Must be 16 or over Must have a physical or mental disability considered vocationally related, meaning that it causes a substantial handicap to employment A reasonable expectation must exist that a program of vocational rehabilitation will lead to employment Must have a finandal need
What to do Ifa person is turned down. If a
person is ruled ineligible, he/she will also.be mailed the information on how to appeal.
The Georgia Client Assistance Program (CAP) CAP helps people with disabilities who are
seeking or receiving vocational rehabilitation services by:
PrOViding iTJIormation about the federal Rehabilitation Act induding:
How the state can help a person get, keep or advance in work How to qualify How to pilot your own rehabilitation The purpose of the Rehabilitation Act A person's rights under the ACT

I,

109

!

Assisting individuals who have problems applying for or receiving services under the Act.

What can the Client Assistance Program Do? Ira person has a problem with a vocational

o

rehabilitation program or application, CAP can

assist in many ways, induding:

Advising a person of his/her rights

Solving communication problems

Teaching a person how to make requests

Referring a person to other agencies where

helpful

Negotiating for a person

Mediating disputes

Advocating for a person with the agency and

others

Presenting a person's requests to the agency

Obtaining legal representation where appropri-

ate

How To Contact the Client Assistance Program?

A person may reach the Client Assistance Program

by calling or writing:

Client Assistance Program

123 N. McDonough Street

Decatur, GA 30030

800-822-9727 statewide toll free 404-373-2040 (VoicelTIY) Atlanta area 800-255-0135 Georgia Relay Service

o

404-373-4110 Fax

o
110

.DRS Office Locations


I Business Enterprise Program
Administrative Qffice Carl McRae, Director 2 Peachtree St. NW, suite 35-462
Atlanta, GA 30303-3142 1
(404) 657-3087; (404) 657-3055 FAX
Decatur Qffice Berty Green, SupetVisor 5238 Royal Woods Parkway, Suite 200 Thcker, GA 30084-3079
, I (770) 724-6590; (770) 724-6598 FAX

Georgia Industries for the Blind

Administration Qffice

I

Lane Whitley, Executive Director

700 Faceville Highway (Mail:1 P.O. Box 218)

Bainbridge, GA 31717-0218

I (912) 248-2666 (912) 248-2669 FAX
Bainbridge Plant

Gerard Kwilecki, Plant Manager



700 Faeeville Highway Mail: P.O. Box 218

Bainbridge, GA 3171 7~218

(912) 248-2666 (912) 248-2669 FAX

Grjffin Plant

AI Hardy, Plant Manager

P.O. Box 98

Griffin, GA 30224-0003

(770) 229-3309; (770) 229-3311 FAX

Roosevelt Warm Springs IJtitute for

Rehabilitation

I

Frank Ruzycki, ExecutiVe Director

P.O. Box 1000

I

Warm Springs, GA 31830-10C>

(706) 655-5000; (706) 655-5011 FAX
secti~n Disability Adjudication

Administrative/Main Qffice

Jerry Thomas, Director

330 West Ponce de Leon Ave.

Mail: P.O. Box 1187 .

Decatur, GA 30031

(404) 687-2100; (404) 371-7207 FAX

Thomasville Qffice (Unit 7)

Denny Lewin, Unit Supervisor

131 7 East Jackson Street

Thomasville, GA 31792-4750



(912) 225-5279; (912) 227-2433 FAX
Savannah Q/fice (Unit 4) I

Mary Lynn Powell, Unit Supervisor

I

P.O. Box 14509 Savannah, GA 31416-1509 (912) 351-3511 (912)353-5015 FAX
REGIONAL OFFICES
REGION 1 Rome, Dallas, Da/tQn, LaF''f)'ette
Rome - Regional David Bennett, RD 606, Graham Street NW Rome, GA 30165-2354 (706) 295-6407; (706) 295-6778 FAX
Rome- Hub 2 Tommy Cobb, EM 404 South Broad Street SW Rome, GA 30161-4647 (706) 295-6400; (706) 802-5188 FAX
Rome- Hub 1 Ted Langford, EM 404 South Broad Street SW Rome, GA 30161-4647 (706) 295-6400; (706) 802-5188 FAX
Dallas - Hub Ken Curtis, EM 300 WI Parkway, Suite 300 Dallas, GA 30132-5353 (770) 443-3717; (770) 443-3733 FAX
Dalton - Hub Judy Salvaras, EM 1615 Hickory Street, Suite 106 Dalton, GA 30720-8518 (706) 212-2303; (706) 272-2288 FAX
laFayette - Hub carroll Andrew, EM 115 East laFayette Square LaFayette, GA 30728-2929 (706) 638-5536; (706) 638-5558 FAX
111

REGION 2
Gainesville. Cumming. Cleveland
Gainesville - Regional Susan Sherman, RD 311 Green Street, Suite 209 Gainesville GA 30501-3364 (770) 535-5930; (770) 535-5904 FAX
Gainesville - Hub Nicki Farmer, EM 530.Broad Street SE, P.O. Box 677 Gainesville, GA 30503-0677 . (770) 535-5468; (770) 535-5994 FAX
Cumming - Hub Weyland Billingsley, EM 100 Colony Park Drive, Suite 204 Cumming, GA 30040-2774 (770)781-6781; (770) 781-6785 FAX
Cleveland - Hub Cynthia Hanna, EM 234 South Main Street #B Cleveland, GA 30040-2774 (706) 865-9535; (706) 865-9602 FAX
REGION 3
Atlanta. 1l.Lcker, Decatur, Hapeville, Lawrencevl71e, Canton. Madetta. Douglasville, Jonesboro
Atlanta - Regional Jennifer Hudson, RD Jim Newton, Program Mgr. Doh Faulkner, Program Mgr. 10 Park Place South SE, Suite 602 Atlanta. GA 30303-2905 (404) 657-2238 or 2239; (404) 657-4731 FAX
1\acker - Hub 1 Valerie Martin, EM 2187 Northlake Parkway, Suite 112 1\acker, GA 30084-4110
(770) 414-2602; call first to FAX
Decatur - Hub 2 Richard ,ones. EM 755 Commerce Drive, Room 615 Decatur, GA 30030-2619 (404) 370-5130; (404) 370-5067 FAX
Decatur - Hub 3 Marcia Blanding, EM 4151 Memorial Drive, Suite 100-F Decatur, GA 30032-1594 (404) 298-4900; (404) 298-3629 FAX
Atlanta - Hub 4 Tom Beaty, EM 1718 Peachtree Street NW, Suite 376-5 Atlanta, GA 30309-2409 (404) 206-6000 or 5434; (404) 206-6011 FAX

Atlanta - Hub 5 Kay Markette. EM. 1718 Peachtree Street NW, Suite 376-5 Atlanta, GA 30309-2409 (404) 206-6000 or 5434; (404) 206-6.011 FAX
Hapeville - Hub 6 Bill Corley, EM 3420 Norman Beny Drive. Suite 401 Hapeville. GA 30354-1314 (404) 669-3901; (404) 559-4970 FAX
Hapeville - Hub 7 Wanda Rucker, EM 3420Norman Beny Drive, Suite 401 Hapeville, GA 30354-1314 (404) 669-3900; (404) 559-4970 FAX
Lawrenceville - Hub 8 . ~nda Boatwright. EM
134 South Clayton Street. Suite 27 Lawrenceville. GA 30045-5743 (770) 995-2170; (770) 995-2182 FAX
canton- Mini Hub 9 Bernadette Amerein. EM 3049 Marietta Highway. Suite 130 P.O. Box 552 canton, GA 30114-0552 (770)720-3570; (770) 720-3577 FAX Marietta - Hub 9 Bernadette Amerein. EM 1046 South Cobb Drive. S.E. Marietta, GA 30060-3304 (770) 528-3435; (770) 528-3436 FAX
Marietta - Hub 10 Fulton Cooper, EM 1046 South Cobb Drive, S.E. Marietta. GA 30060-3304 (770) 528-3435; (770) 528-3436 FAX
Douglasville - Mini Hub 10 Fulton Cooper, EM .. 4600 Thnber Ridge Drive. Bldg. 8-Room 225/226 DouglasviDe, GA 30135-1225 (770) 489-3018; (770) 489-3115 FAX
Jonesboro - Hub 11 Vicki Jackson, EM 409 Arrowhead Boulevard, Suite 8-8 . Jonesboro, GA 30236-1246 (770) 473-2462; (770) 473-2446 FAX
REGION 4
Newnan. CI1TToOton, GTjffin, LaGrange .
Newnan - Regional
ltish Cooper, RD
29-A Farmer Industrial Blvd. P.O. Box 218 Newnan, GA 30264-0218 (770) 254-7210; (770) 254-7215 FAX

112

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Carrollton - Hub Sylvia Wallace, EM 1512 North Highway 21j .carrollton, GA 30111-1~06 (170) 836-6681; (170)83~225.1 FAX
Griffin - Hub Georgia Rummage, EM 231-C South 10th Street Griffin, GA 30224-2835 (170) 229-3140; (170) 229-3151 FAX
laGrange - Hub
Mike Maddox, EM
1495 laFayette Parkwa}j, Suite A laGrange GA 30241-25~2 (706) 845-4025; (706) 845-4031 FAX,
REGION 5 Athens, Monroe
Athens - Regional
Charlotte Tolbert, RD
125 Athens West Parkway Athens. GA 30606-69421 (706) 354-3900; (106) 354-3943 FAX
Athens - Hub 1 lbm Wilson, EM 125 Athens West Parkway Athens. GA 30606-69421 (106) 354-3900; (106) 354-3943 FAX
Athens - Hub 2
Dixie Morris, EM
125 Athens West Parkway Athens, GA 30606-69421 (106) 354-3900; (106) 354-"3943 FAX
Monroe - Hub 3
Melanie Poole, EM 226 Alcovy Place.,Suite ~114
Monroe, GA 30655-2189 (170) 201-4220; (170) 201-4218 FAX
REGION 6 Columbus, Amer;QIS'
Columbus - Regional
Vacant. RD
I 233 12th Street, Suite loo-B
p.o. Box 2863
Columbus, GA 31902-2863 (706) 649-1560; (106) 649-1573 FAX
Columbus - -South" Lu Bussey-Bowman, EM 233 12th Street, Suite 911 P.O. Box 2863 Columbus, GA 31902-2863 (706) 649-7400; (706) 649-7421 FAX

Columbus - -North-
Annette Mccauley, EM
233 12th Street, Suite 911 P.O. Box 2863 Columbus, GA 31902-2863 (106) 649-1400; (106) 649-1421 FAX
Americus - Hub
Jerry Mullinax, EM
1604-C East Forsyth Street, P.O. Box 845 Americus, GA 31109-0845 (912) 931-2516; (912) 931-2811 FAX
REGION 7 Macon. M111edgev111e. Perry
Macon - Regional John Williams, RD . 2120 Riverside Drive, Suite 12 P.O. Box 1566 Macon, GA 31209-1566 (912) 151-6212; (912) 751-6004 FAX
Macon- Hub
Ed Leysath, EM
111 Riverside Drive, P.O. Box 6111 Macon, GA 31208-6111 (912) 751-6000 or 6282; (912) 751-6004 FAX
Milledgeville - Hub
Anna Warnock, EM 2930 Heritage Place. Suite 102
Milledgeville, GA 31061-9208 (912) 445-4181; (912) ~45-0822 FAX
Perry- Hub Susan Coleman. EM 1021 Commerce Street, P.O. Box 1248 Perry. GA 31069-1248 (912) 988-6760 or 6161; (912) 988-6168 FAX
REGIONS
A~ Swainsboro. Thomson
Augusta - Regional Doyle Stewart, RD
1220 West Wheeler Pkwy, P.O. Box 15141
AUgusta, GA30919-1141 (106) 650-5600; (106) 650-5624 FAX
Augusta - Hub 1
Ed Myers, EM
3112-A Washington Road, P.O. Box 204630 Augusta, GA 30911-4630 (106) 650-5638; (106) 650-5670 FAX
Augusta - Hub 2 Ann Heeth, EM 3112-A Washington Road P.O. Box 204630 Augusta, GA 30911-4630 (706) 650-5638; (106) 650-5670 FAX
113

. Swainsboro - Hub Ellen Hall, EM 536 SOuth Main Street, P.O. Box 660 Swainsboro, GA 30401-0660 (912) 289-2578: (912) 289-2586 FAX
Thomson - Hub Ava scearce, EM 1025-A Warrenton Highway, P.O. Box 824 Thomson, GA 30824-0824 (706) 591-8515: (706) 591-Q090 FAX
REGION 9
Dllbiin, EastmIl1t. Reidsville
Dublin.; RegiooaI Eleanor Surren~, RD 2032 Veterans Blvd, Suite B . P.O. Box 16189 Dublin, GA 31040-0158 (912) 274-7676: (912) 214-1658 FAX
Dublin- Hub Mike Pruett, EM 904 Claxton Dairy Road, P.O. Box 158 . Dublin, GA 31040-0158 (912) 215-6519: (912) 275-6871 FAX
East:man - Mini Hub Mike Pruett, EM 107 College Street, P.o. Box 188
Eastman; GA31023-o188
(912) 374-6841: (912) 374"'6849 FAX
Reidsvme - Hub Susan Thompson, EM 106 South Main Street, P.O. Box 790 Reidsvme, GA 30453-0190 (912) 551-1558: (912) 557-7896 FAX .
REGION 10 Albany, Bainbridge. ThomflSVl7le
Albany - Regional Dianne Davis, RD 110 Pine Avenue, P.O. Box 1606 Albany, GA 31102-1606 . (912) 430-4461: (912) 430-4466 FAX
Albany - Mini Hub Valerie Moore, EM 110 Pine Avenue, P.O. Box 1606 Albany, GA 31702-1606 (912) 430-4170; (912) 430-3931 FAX
Albany - Hub catherine Andrews. EM 110 Pine Avenue, P.O. Box 1606 Albany, GA 31702-1606 (912) 430-4170: (912) 430-3931 FAX

Bainbridge - Mini Hub Valerie Moore, EM 502 West Shotwell Street, P.O. Box 1159
Bainbridge. GA 31717-1159 (912) 248-2480: (9i2) 248-2915 FAX Thomasville - Hub Marilyn Mason, EM 1317 East Jackson Street Thomasville; GA 31192-4150 (912) 225-4045: (912) 225-5264 FAX
REGlDN It
Yaldosta, 1f/br. Wt()'CI1JSS
Valdosta - Regional Sid Burden, HI) 2809 B North Ashley Street valdosta, GA 31602-1806 (912) 333-2110: (912) 249-2615 FAX
valdosta - Mini Hub Cherrell campbell, EM 2910 H North Ashley Street Valdosta, GA 31602-1761 (912) 333-5248: (912) 245-6494 FAX
Valdosta - Hub Eddie carter, EM 2910 H North Ashley Street valdosta, GA 31602-1761 (912) 333-5248: (912) 245-6494 FAX
'Dfton - Hub
CherreU campbell, EM
820-C Lowe Avenue, P.O.. Box 1629
nfton, GA 31193-1629
(912) 386-3522: (9.12) 386-1325 FAX .
Wayaoss - Hub Loretta ward, EM
231 t Knight Avenne, P.O. Box 2026 Waycross, GA 31502-2026
(912) 285-601., (912) 287-6698 FAX
. REGION 12
Savannah. Bnmswicll. Hinesville. sttm:sboro
savannah, Regional
Allen BeaD, RD 420 Mall Boulevard, Suite A, P.O. Box 13421
Savannah, Ga 31416-0421 (912) 356-2134: (912) 691:-6816 FAX
savannah, Hub 1 Vacant, EM 420 Mall Boulevard. Suite A, P.O. Box 13427 Savannah, Ga 31416-0427 (912) 356-2226; (912) 356-2875 FAX
114

o o o



Savannah - Hub 2
Jody Lane, EM
I 420 Mall Boulevard, Suite A
P.O. Box 13427 Savannah, Ga 31416-042iT (912) 356-2226; (912) 356-2815 FAX
Brunswick - Hub Neil Mullis, EM 106 Shopper's Way, Suite ~ Brunswick, GA 31525-0511 (912) 264-1281; (912) 262-3342 FAX
Hinesville - Mini Hub Andrew Hendrix. EM 508 North Main Street, P.O. Box 25 Hinesvllle, GA 31310-0025 (912) 310-2590; (912) 370-2592 FAX
Statesboro - Mini Hub Andrew Hendrix, EM 111 savannah Avenue, P.O. Box 692 Statesboro, GA 30459-069I2
I
(912) 811-1113; (912) 811-1164 FAX
I RD =Regional Director
= OEM Employment Manager




115

Rehabilitation Facilities
o

Acute

Bowdon Area Hospital 501 Mitchell Ave. Bowdon, GA 30108 Phone: (770) 258-7207

Candler General Hospital Rehabilitation Unit 5353 Reynolds Street Savannah, GA 31405 Phone: (912) 354-9211 Fax: (912) 697-6566

central Georgia Rehabilitation Hospital 3351 Northside Drive Macon. GA 31210' Phone: (912) 471-3500 Fax: (912) 474-6601

Egleston Children's Hospital at Emory

1405 Clifton Road NE

Atlanta. GA 30322

Phone: (404) 315-2579

Fax: (404) 315-2158

.

.

This rehabilitation center at Egleston accepts children

from birth to age 18 with acute or chronic problems.

Offers inpatient, outpatient and day rehab programs for

comprehensive evaluation and treatment Program

focuses on the development of the child's abilities and

helping the family and child compensate for long-term

disabilities.

Emory University for Rehabilitation I Medicine 1441 Clifton Road NE Atlanta. GA 30322 Phone: (404) 712-7593 Fax: (404) 712-4746
Rehabilitation services for people who experience stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury or other disabling injury or illness. Service is prOVided by interdisciplinary teams working to provide a continuum of care.

Meadowbrook Rehabilitation 320 Parkway Drive NE A4 Atlanta. GA 30312 Phone: (770) 732-7777

RehabCare Unit - CObb Hospital and Medical center Rehab Unit - ProminalCobb Hospital 3950 Austen Rd. AusteD.GA 30106 Phone: (770) 944-5349

Shepherd center Shepherd center. Inc. 2020 Peachtree Road. NW Atlanta. GA30309 Phone: (404) 352-2020 Fax: (404) 350-7773 Web site: www.shepherd.orgl
A private hospital specializing in the treatment of people with spinal cord and aCquired brain injury, multiple sclerosis and other neuromuscular diseases, and urological diseases.

Post-Acute
Annandale at Suwanee, Inc. 3500 Annandale Lane Suwanee. GA 30024 Phone: (770) 945-8381
Provides residential day and evening services for adults with developmental disabilities. services offered include paid vocational training. visual and perforriling arts. daily livingllife sknIs, therapeutic recreation, case management, health services. off-campus activities.

o

Atlanta Rehabilitation Institute, Inc. 1450 South Johnson Ferry Rd., NE Atlanta, GA 30319 Phone: (404) 252-5325
Rehabilitation services for the person with traumatic brain injury or stroke who can leave the hospital yet still requires rehabilitation services. Offering a transitional day treatment program.

Augusta Easter seal Rehabilitation center 1241 Reynolds Street Augusta, GA 30901 Phone: (404) 722-3175

Bobby Dodd center 1440 Dutch Valley PI. NE, Suite A Atlanta, GA 30324 Phone: (404) 873-2077 Fax: (404) 872-6540

o

116



Cave Spring Rehabilitation center

Georgia Avenue

.

cave Spring. GA 30124

Phone: (404) 177-3361

center for the VISually Impaired

163 Peachtree Street NE

Atlanta. GA 30308

Phone: (404) 875-9011

Fax: (404) 607-0062

Provides services for the totally blind. legally blind.

Visually impaired, and for P.eople who are both blind

and have mental retardatioh and more. Includes health,

counseling, educational, retreational. rehabilitation, computer training and prof~ssional training services.
I. Devereaux center m. Georgla
I 1980 Stanley Road., NW

Kennesaw, GA 30144

Phone: (770) 427-0147, (800) 342-3351

Fax: (770) 425-1413

I

This is a specialized psychiatric hospital. Intensive residential treatment progr~m for adolescents of both

sexes ages 12 to 17 with mMerate to severe emotional,

. I behavioral or learning disatiilities.

Georgia Industries for the Blind

P.O. Box 218

Bainbridge. GA 31718

Phone: (912) 248-2666

Fax: (912) 248-2669

Offers services for people.who are totally blind,

legally blind, Visually impaited, both blind and have mental retardation and mor~ with health. counseling,

educational, recreational, rehabilitation, computer training and professional tr~ining services.
I
Georgia Tech center for Rehabilitation ltchnology

Atlanta. GA 30332

Phone: (404) 894-1414

(800) 726-9116

Fax: (404) 853-9320

A nonprofit research and <ievelopment center with an

emphasis on providing techrtology related services to .

persons with disabilities. Sery,ices include product

design and modification. computer access evaluations.

architectural accessibility surreys and assistive

technology consultations/evaluations. CRT's .

TechKnowledge is a clearingltouse for information on products. technology, resour~es and services relating to

the needs of people with disabilities.

pro~am Head Injury Treatment

at Marietta

26 Tower Road

Marietta. GA 30360

Phone: (800) 526-5782

Postacute rehabilitation pr~am

Hillhaven Rehabilitation

26 'Ibwer Road

Marietta. GA 30060

Phone: (110) 422-8913

(800) 526-5182

Fax: (110) 425-2085

.

Provides routine skilled and subaQlte medical and

rehabilitation care induding physical therapy.

oa:upational therapy. speeCh pathology and therapeutic

recreation. Indudes programs in the area of stroke and

head injury rehab. orthopedic rehab. complex IV

therapy. woundcare. cancer, total parental nutrition and

dialysis.

Learning services - Peachtree 2400 Highway 29 South Lawrenceville, Ga 30245 Phone: (110) 962-4828
Postacute rehabilitation program.

Meadowbrook Atlanta/Community Re-Entry 1946 Clairmont Road #200 Decatur, GA 30033 Phone: (404) 248-1661 Fax: (404) 248-9833
Postacute rehabilitation program

Pain Control and Rehabilitation Institute of Georgia

2786 N. Decatur Road , Suite 220

-

Decatur, GA 30033

Phone: (404) 297-1400

Fax: (404) 297-1421

Sponsors a wide variety of training programs.

Savannah Association for the Blind, Inc.
214 Drayton Street Savannah, GA 31401 Phone: (912) 236-4413 Fax: (912) 234-4156
Provides services for the totally blind, legally blind, visually impaired, people who are both blind and have mental-retardation and.more with health; counseling, educational, reaeational, rehabilitation, computer training and professional training services.

Shepherd center, Inc. 2020 Peachtree Road NW Atlanta, GA 30309 Phone: (404) 352-2020 Fax: (404) 350-1479 Web site: www.shepherd.orgl
A private, not-for-profit hospital specializing in the care of people with spinal cord injury and disease, acquired brain injury, multiple sclerosis and other neuromu~lardiseases. and urological problems. The hospital offers a continuum of health care services from intensive care through inpatient medical/surgical care,
rehabilitation, transitional care. day program, outpatient and residential services.

117

n-ansitional Hospitals Corporation

7000 Central Pkwy. NE, Suite 100

Atlanta, GA 30328

Phone: (800) 683-6868

Fax: (770) 913-0015

"

One of a national network of intensive care hospitals

for people with chronic illness andlorcatastrophic

accident

United cerebral Palsy

UCP of Greater Atlanta

1665 'I\lllie Circle, Suite 100

Atlanta, GA 30329

(404) 329-9390

UCP of Macon and Middle Georgia

2992 Cresdine Drive

Macon, GA 31204

(912) 477-4673

E-mail: ucpmmga@mindspring.com

,

Web Site: www.ucpa.orglhtmllhistory/network.html

UCP is the leading soura= of information on a=rebral

palsy and is a pivotal advocate for the rights of persons

with any disability. In fact, 65CJ& of people served by UCP

have disabilities other than cerebral palsy.

Vince Dooly Easter seal center 3035 N. Druid Hills Rd. NE Atlanta,GA 30329
Phone: (404) 633-9609
Fax: (404) 633-2740
Provides an early intervention program and continuing therapy support to maximize the abilities of a child with disabilities and ensure plaa=ment in the least restrictive environment

Walton RehabWtatlon Hospital

1355 Independent Drive

Augusta, GA 309901

Phone: (706) 724-7746

(800) 366-60S5

Fax: (706)' 724-5752

Provides CDmprehensive physical rehabilitation

services both inpatient and oulpatient Indudes stroke

recovery, ~ injury, pediatrics, head injury, pain

management, spinal cord injury, coma manageJnel)t,

driving instruction, rehab cosmetology, work re-entry,

independent Uving, assistive technology and ADA

ooosuiting.

.

118

o o o




119

NOTES
o
o
)
o
120



. '

- - -

-

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-

--

-

--

-

Children's Supports



I



Children's Medical Services




Children's Medical Services (CMS) provides special health care for ~orgia's children. This is a

state program to provide!low-middle income

children with a disabilit}i or chronic health

problems with free or reduced cost health care.

Referrals are made by pJblic health departments,

private doctors, other heatth care providers and

families.

I

.

Children's Medical seMI'ces provides or pays for

long-term treatment and therapy. Doctors at the

CMS outpatient clinics evaluate a child's condition,

design a treatment plan ckd provide follow-up

care. case management ik provided by the CMS nursing and social work ~taff. The nurse is

responsible for implemeriting the treatment plan and coordinating the se~ces needed by the child

and the family. CMS works closely with the

primary physician.

I Eligibility Criten'a include: Birth to age 21 Resident of Georgia Have a disability or chronic disease (See listing of conditions treat~d at different clinics that follows this narrative section.) .
Financial eligibility is based on severity of problem and requirementk fo(care, as theyrelate to family size and annual family income. Some families may have to cost share:
State Office: Laura L. ~ymmes. RN MS 2600 Skyland Drive. NE
I
Atlanta, GA 30319 Phone: (40I 4) 679-0539 Fax: (404)I 679-0537
I
Note: E;[feetiveJune 30, 1999, the Atlanta Children :so Medical servicds Qifice closed. Patients in the Atlanta programs tire served by the CMS
Qffice responsibleJor theif1counly Q{residence.. Metro Atlanta health dism'cts will establish CMS Q/fices to serve their constituents.

Peachcare for Kids. Georgia's Department of

Medical Assistance (DMA) has introduced a new

children's health insurance program Peachcare for

Kids. Implemented under ntle XXI of the Social

Security Act, the Children's Health Insurance

Program (CHIP), PeachCare for Kids will provide a

comprehensive package of health care services for

children in families whose income is below 200%

of the federal poverty level and who are neither

eligible for Medicaid nor covered by ano~er

insurance plan.

.

Children who are uninsured are at increased

risk for preventable illnesses. Over 300,000

children in Georgia have no health insurance.

Approximately one third (103,000-140,000) are

eligible for PeachCare for Kids, Georgia's

Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

for no more than $7.50 a month per child,

parents will receive a package of plan benefits that

covers a comprehensive array of services: regular

physician check-ups and immunizations; in-

patient and out-patient hospital services; dental

care; mental health; prescription drugs; and vision

care. Coverage for children under six is free, and

the maximum monthly premium per family is only

$15.00 to cover two or more children.

Eligibility. Families who make up to twice (200%) the federal poverty level. but more than the limit for Medicaid are eligible. The majority of eligible children are from low income families, and their parents are often employed by small companies and are themselves uninsured. Exact income limits will vary with family size. (see chart on following page)
Children up through the age of 18 are covered under Peachcare, provided they are residents of ' Georgia and are U.S. Citizens or legal immigrants as of August 22, 1996.
BenfJits. Benefits are substantially the same as . those offered under the state Medicaid plan. Current Medicaid providers may also be Peachcare providers. Families may choose to enroll in a

\'

!

123

Medicaid Managed care Organization (MOO) iD

their area or they may choose a primary care

provider in the Georgia Better Health care (GBHC) program. If no choice is made, the child will be assigned to a GBHC provider.

o

Premiums. There ~ no co-payments or deductibles, only the following monthly premiums:

Children ages 0-5 . 1 Child age 6-18 2+ children ages 6-18

None $7.50 $15.00

App{yingJor Peachcare. Obtain an application from one of several locations (providers, health departments, hospitals, etc.) or call toll free 1-877GA PEACH (427-3224) to have one mailed to you.

Medicaid Waiver for Childen: Katie Beckett

Waiver (ftom page 41, Medicaid)

Disabled Children in need of nursing home care

but who chose to remain in the Community (Katie

Beckett Waiver). Children under age 18 who are

financially ineligible for SSI because of their

parents' income, but who meet the S51 disability

requirements and are in need of nursing home care are financially eligible for Medicaid if they

o

chose to remain in the community. Georgia has a

"Katie Beckett Waiver" which allows the state to

waive, i.e., ignore, the income and resources of

these disabled children's parents for purposes of

Medicaid eligibility.78

must To be ~tegorica1ly eligible, "Katie Beckett"
children meet the basic level ofcare admis-

sion requirements to be eligible for Medicaid

nursing home care. The cost of the child's care in

the community must not be more than the cost of

nursing home care would be.79

o
124

--

--



FtlteraI Poverty Guidelines for Georgia - 1999-

I

Monthly Income

Housiold Size I I1 I2
1. 3
I4
15 .
6
1
1
1
8
1 I
for additional I
member add

100% $687 $922 $1,157 $1,392 $1,627 $1,862 $2,097 $2,332 $235

125'MJ $1,589 $2,132 $2,676 $3,219 $3,762 $4,306 $4,849 $5,393 $294

185'MJ $i,271 $1,706 $2,140 $2,575 $3,010 $3.445 $3,879 $4,314
$4~5

200% $1,374 $1,844 $2,314 $2,784 $3,254 $3,724 $4,194 $4,664 $470



I
Federal Proverty Guidelines for Georgia - 1999
I . .Annual Income



Househbld Size I
11
2
1
3
1
I14 15
I
b
I
I 7, I
8,
I for additional
I
menili1er add

$100% $8,240 $11,060 $13,880 $16,700 $19,520 $22,340 $25,160 $27,980 $2,820

125'MJ $10.300 $13,825 $17,350 $20,875 $24,400 $27,925 $31,450 $34,975 $3,525

185'MJ $15,244 $20,461 $25,618 $30,895 $36,112 $41,329 - $46,546 $51,763 $5,211

200% $16,480 $22,120 $27,769 $33,400 $39,040 $44,680 $50,320 $55,960 $5,640

I
Watson. Sidney D., 1999. A Georgja AdVOcates Guide to Health care funded by Health Law section of the State Bar of Georgia and
Mercer University Law SChool.l

125

eMS Offices
o

Atlanta Clinic (Health Districts 1-1, ~I, ~2, ~3, ~ 4,3-5)
Counties Served: Bartow, Ctoosa, Chattoga, Clayton, Cobb, Dade, DeKalb, Douglas, floyd, Fulton, Gordon, Gwinnett, Haralson, Newton, Paulding, Polk, Rockdale, .
Walker Speda/(y ainics: Amputee, Burn, cardiac, Chronic
Lung, Cystic Fibrosis, Diabetes, GI, GU, Hearing, Hemophilia/HIV, Maxilla-Facial, Myelomeningocele, Neurosurgery, Orthopedics, Plastic Surgery, seizure, Scoliosis. Vision 2600 Skyland Drive NE, Ground Level
Atlanta, GA 30319 (404) 679-4700; (404) 679-4781 FAX

Dalton (Health District 1-2) Counties Served: Cherokee, Fannin. GHmer, Murray.
Pickens, Whitfield Spedal(y ainics: Diabetes. Hearing, Orthopedics,
Seizure 100 West Walnut, Suire 92
Dalton. GA 30720 (706) 272-2219; (706) 272-0244 FAX

Gainesville (Health District 2) Counties Served: Banks, Dawson, Forsyth, Franklin,
Habersham. Han, Hart, Lumpkin, Rabun, Stephens, 1bwns, Union, White . .
. Speda/(y Ctinics: Hearing, Orthopedics, Plastic
SurgeJY, Seizure 1856-3 Thompson Br. Rd. GainesviUe, GA 30501 (770) 531-5661 or 535-6907; (770) 531-6341 FAX

laGrange (Health District 4)

Counties Served: Butts, carroU, Coweta, Fayette,

Heard. HenJY Lamar. Meriwether, Pike. Spalding, noup,

Upson

.

Speda/(y Ctinics: Hearing, Orthopedics.

Neurology

122 Gordon Commercial Dr., Suire A

laGrange, GA 30240

(706) 845-4035; (706) 845-4038 FAX

Macon (Health District 5-2)

Counties served: Baldwin, Bibb, crawford, Hancock,

Houston, Jasper, Jones, Monroe, Peach, Putnam, lWiggs,

. Washington, Wilkinson

:

Spea'ally C1inics: Diabetes, Hearing, Orthopedics,

Plastic SurgeJY, seizure, SColiosis, VISion

811 Hemlock Street

Macon. GA 31201

(912) 751-6253; (912) 751-6429 FAX

Augusta (Health District 6) Counties served: Burke, Columbia, Emanuel,
GlascOck, Jefferson, Jenkins, Lincoln, McDuffie, Richmond, Saeven, Thliaferro, Warren, Wilkes
Specially Clinics: Bum, cardiac, Chronic Lung, Cystic Fibrosis, Diabetes. Hearing. Orthopedics, Plastic Surgei)', seizure 1916 North Legg Road Augusta, GA 30909
(706) 667-4400; (106) 667-4555 FAX
Columbus (Health District 7) Counties served: Chattahoochee, Clay, Crisp, Dooly,
Harris, Maron, Marion, Muscogee. Quitman, Randolph, Schley, Stewart, Sumter, 'Cllbot. Tclylor, Webster
Spetia/(y C1inks: Hearing. Orthopedics, seizure, VISion P.O. Box 2299 Columbus, GA 31902 (106) 321-0514 or 0644; (706) 321-1355 FAX
and
606 15th Ave. East Cordele, GA 31015 (912) ~16-2343; (912) 276-2111 FAX

o

Valdosta (Health District 8-1) COUnties Served: Ben Hill, Berrien, Brooks, Cook,
Echols, Irwin, Lanier, Lowdnes. 11ft, 1\amer Specialty C1inics: cardiac, Diabetes, Genetics, Hear-
ing, Orthopedics, seizure, Sickle cen, Vision
2100-B North oak Street Valdosla, GA 31602
(912) 216-2343; (912) 276-2717 FAX

Dublin (Health District 5-1)

Albany (Health District 8-2)

Counties Served: Bleckley, Dodge, Johnson, Laurens,

Counties Served: Baker, calhoun, ColqUitt, Decatur,

Montgomery, Pulaski, Telfair, nuetlen, Wheeler, WilCox

Dougherty, Early, Grady, Lee, MiDer, Mitchell, seminole,

Spedal(y ainics: Hearing, Orthopedic, Neurology

~rreU, Thomas, Worth

18335A Highland Westgate

Specia/(y Clinics: Genetics, Hearing, Orthopedics.

Dublin. GA 31021

~

Plastic SurgeJY, seizure, Sickle ceD, Vision

.

(912) 275-5114; (912) 274-7893 FAX

1306 South Sloppy Blvd., Suite B

Albany, GA 31701

126 (912) 430-4115; (912) 430-5145 FAX

o



Savannah (Health District 9-1)

Counties Served: ChatHam, Effingham Specialty Clinics: cardi~c (Medical Only), Hearing, Orthopedics. Plastic surg~ry, Seizure, Vision

11706 Mercy Boulevard, f8

Savannah. GA 31419, P'OI' Box 61297

Savannah, GA 31420

. (912) 921-7474; Rosemary (912)921-7467; (912) 921-

7473 FAX

.

waycross

Counties Served: Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Brantley, Charlton, Clinch, Coffee, J~ff Davis, Pierce, Ware, Wayne

Specialty Clinics: Genetics, Hearing, Neurosurgery.

OrthopediCS, Neurology, Sickle Cell, Telemedicine, Urology, Vision, Developm~ntal

Daisy Youth Clinic

.

1720 Reynolds Street

Waycross, GA 31501

(912) 285-6304; (912) 287-6644 FAX

CSHCN Unit - Daisy Youth 1IClinic

1718 Reynolds Street, Suite 100

Waycross, GA 31501

I

(800) 429-6307; (912) 287-6689 FAX
Counties Served: Bulloch, candler, Evans, Tc1ttnall,

Toombs. . ..

.\

Speaalty CliniCS: Hearing, Neurology.

Orthopedics, Vision

3 West Altman Street

Statesboro, GA 30458

(912) 871-1850; (912) 681-0919 FAX

Brunswick (Health DistriJt 9-3)

Counties Served: Bryan, Camden, Glynn, Liberty,

Long, McIntosh

I

Specialty Clinics: Hearing, Neurology,

Orthopedics

1609 Newcasde Street

Brunswick. GA 31520

(912) 264-3907; (912) 262-2315 FAX

I
Athens (Health District 10)

Counties Served: Barrow, \Clarke, Elbert, Greene,

Jackson, Madison, Morgan, Oconee, Oglethorpe, Walton

Specialty Clinics: ChroniclLunch, Genetics, GU,

Hearing. Orthopedics, Plastic Surgery, Seizure, Vision

645 Meigs Street

\

Athens, GA 30601

(706) 542-9653; (706) 542-9657 FAX

.


127

Early' Intervention

o

BabIes can't Walt IEarly Intervention Program

Why is early intervention important1 Babies

develop so quickly. Half of their physical, social,

emotional and intellectual growth takes place in

the first few years of life. These first years are the

critical foundations for later learning.

Each year In Georgia, more than 10,000 babies

are born with or later develop conditions that

threaten their normal growth and learning. With-

out early help, even conditions that are mild in the

beginning can become severe as a child grows

older. With the right help, a child has a greater

chance of reaching his or her developmental

potential. Studies show that for every $1 spent on

early intervention, $7 can be saved on additional

services that might otherwise be needed later in

the child's life.

'

What is Babies can't Wait? Babies can't Wait

(BCW) is Georgia's statewide interagency service

delivery system for infants and toddlers with

developmental delays or disabilities and their

families. The Georgia Department of Human

Resources, Division of Public Health is the lead

agency administering the Babies, Can't Wait

Program in Georgia. The Division ensures that:

1. services are provided in accordance with federal

guidelines;

,

2. families have access to the services which are

needed to enhance their child's development;

and

3. training is available to ensure that professionals

who work with children and families have up- ,

to-date information.

Babies can't Wait was developed to assist

families with babies under the age of three who

have problems in any area of their development

It begins with a complete evaluation of the child's

development. The next step is to identify services

and resources to help the family meet the child's

developmental needs.

What services are available? Every child

enrolled in Babies can't Wait has an Individual

Family service Plan (IFSP) which addresses the specific needs of the child and is based on the results of evaluation and assessment information, induding parent concerns. The plan includes outcomes for the child andlor family, strategies and activities to address outcomes, and the resources needed to meet the outcomes. The state must make sure that all of the early intervention services identified are available and accessible to the child and family. State funds may be available to assist families who the district health office finds cannot pay for services. evaluation/assessment, service coordination, IFSP development, and procedural safeguards are offered to families at no cost.
0 When the plan is completed, children are linked
with service providers in their area. The Babies Can't Wait Program will teach parents how to work. with their child; and wi1llink them to support groups and other support services, if needed.
Early Intervention services may include assistive technology devices, audiology, family training and counseling, health services, medical diagnostic services, certain nursing services, nutrition services. occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychological services, social work, special instruction, speech-language pathology, vision services and transportation to services.
Who is eligible? Children may be eligible one of two ways:
1. Children from birth to their third birthday , who have problems that could delay their normal development are eligible regardless of income. Children are automatically eligible if they have certain diagnosed problems induding. but not limited to: Down syndrome, Fetal Alcohol syndrome, blindness, spina bifida, cerebral palsy, and
0 ' autism. 2. Children who have a diagnosed developmen-, tal delay confirmed by a qualified team of professionals (these may include children who are far behind their peers in learning to turn over, crawl,

128



walk and talk, and children with emotional or I
speech and hearing problems).

How to contact BabiJ Can't Wait. BCW has a

statewide directory of iMonnation run by ParentI
to Parent, Inc. of Georgila. The directory provides

infonnation about the BCW Program located

nearest to the child and!family. Families who

suspect their child may be delayed in their development can call a toll-freI e number to fmd the

closest BCW office. To ateess the directory, call 1-800-229-2038. In At1I~ta, the number is 77.0451-5484. These number are answered by parents of children with disabilitIies, who can also link

callers with other parents whose children have

similar problems. The st"1te Babies can't Wait

l ' office number is (404) 657-2726 or 1-888-651-
8224.

Some children are referred to Babies can't Wait

by a computerized systefu which identifies babies

at birth who either have :or could develop special

problems. These babies are followed and referred

for additional screenings: as needed. Some babies

might first be screened by the public health

department or private medical providers. When the

screening identifies a prdblem, the children will be

evaluated to detennine their eligibility for Babies I
Can't Wait and services they need.

There are many servicb provided through the

10 public health districts tluotighout the state. Developmental assessmenI ts are done free of charge. This helps the h~th providers decide what services might be m~st useful for your child's condition. Famili~ are given a case manager to assist in developir~g an Individual Family
a Service Plan. This pIan s~ould be an overview of
what goods and services family needs to do the

best Job possible in helpidg their child with his or

her disability.

\

Your service coordinator can help apply for

waivers in the Medicaid ptogram (such as the

DeeminglKatie Beckett weaver) or assist in receiving help through other ag~ndes. There is a lot of infonnation available on ~hat groups and organi-

zations may be additional 'sources of help in your

community.



Babies can't Wait/Early Intervention Programs'
Health District 1-1: Rome
, Becky Faine Early Intervention Program 501 'Broad Street, Suite 211 Rome, GA 30161 706-802-5072 Fax: 706-802-5071
Counties Served: Bartow, catoosa, Chattooga, Dade,
Floyd, Gordon, Haralson, Paulding, Polk and Walker
Health District 2: Gainesville
Mary Mcintosh B~bies can't Wait Program 1856-3 Thompson Bridge Road, Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 531-4053 or 1-800-204-8731 Fax: (770)-538-2784
Counties Served: Banks, Dawson, Forsyth, Franklin. Habersham, HaU, Hart, Lumpkin, Rabun, Stephens.
lbwns, Union and White
Health District 3-2: Atlanta
Kay Russell Fulton County Early Intervention lSI, Ellis Street, NE Atlanta, GA 30303 (404) 730-4027 Fax: (404) 730-4038
_Counties Served: Fulton
Health District 3-4: Lawrenceville
Stephanie Moss GRN Community service Board 115 Gwinnett Drive, PO Box 687 Lawrenceville, GA 30246 (170)339-5062 FAX (770) 339-5345
Counties S~ed: Gwinnett, Newton, Rockdale
Health District 1-2: Dalton
Ann Lewis, RN. Babies can't Wait Program 130 East Main Street, Suite t 05 canton, GA 30114 (770) 120-3542 Fax (77 720-3537
Counties Served: Cherokee, Fannin, Gilmer, Murray,
Pickens and Whitfield
Health District 3-1: Marietta '
Ann Pereira Cobb Douglas Early Intervention 1650 County services Parkway Marietta, GA 30008 (710) 514-2357 Fax (170) 514-2803
Counties Served: Cobb and Douglas

129

Health District 3-3: Forest Park Becky Hawkins. R.N. Clayton Developmental services . 7146 Southlake Parkway
Morrow. GA 30260 .(110) 960-9961 Fax (1110) 96Q-9664
Counties Served: Clayton

Health District 3-5: Dekalb Marie cash. M. Ed. DeKalb Board of Health 2189 North Lake Parkway, Suite 106 Thcker, GA 30084 (110) 934-1884 Fax (110) 934-8526
Counties Served: DeKalb

Health District 4: La Grange

Phyllis Thrner

Babies can't WaiUDistrict 4 Health services

122 Gordon Commercial Drive. Suite A

laGrange, GA .30240

(106) 845-4035

Fax (106) 845-4038

Counties Served: Butts, carroll, Coweta, Fayette,

Heard, Henry, Lamar, Meriwether, Pike, Spalding, 'Iloup

and Upson

.

Health District 5-2: Macon Jennie Couture Early Intervention Program 111 Emery Highway Macon, GA 31204 (912) 145-9200 or 1-888-449,.0108 Fax (912) 145-9040
Counties Served: Baldwin, Bibb, Crawford, Houston, Hancock, Jasper, Jones, Monroe, Peach, Putnam, Twiggs, Washington and Wilkinson

Health District 7: Columbus

Alfred Green, Jr.

Babies can't Wait Program

PO Box 612, Americus, GA 31109

(912) 931-2980; Fax (912) 931-2471 or 105 11th Street, Suite 208

Cmumbus,GA 31902

(106) 321-0189; Fax (106) 321-1355

.

Counties Served: Chattahoochee, Clay, Crisp, Dooly,

Harris, Macon, Marion, Muscogee, Quitman, Randolph,

Schley, Sumter, stewart, Thlbot, Thylor and Web~ter

Health District 8-2: Albany Pam Belk 1306 South Slappey Blvd., Suite A Albany, GA 31101 (912) 430-4212 or 1-800-430-4212 Fax (912) 430-5145
Counties Served: Baker, calhoun,Colquitt, Decatur, Dougherty, Early, Grady, Lee, Miller, Mitehell, Seminole, Terrell, Thomas and Worth

Health District 5-1: Dublin

Sherrian Dorsey

.

Early Intervention Program

1835 A Highland WestGate

Dublin. GA 31021

(912) 215-8305 or .

ThO Free 1-888-262-8305

Fax (912) 214-1893

Counties served: Bleekly, Dodge. Johnson, Laurens,

Montgomery, Pulaski, Telfair, 'Iteuden, Wheeler and

Wiloox

o

Health District 6: Augusta Thmm,y Collier Early Intervention Program . 1916 North Leg Road Augusta, GGA 30909 (106) 661-4279; Fax (106) 667-4218
Counties Served: Burke, Columbia, Emanuel, Glascock, Jefferson, Jenkins. Lincoln. McDuffie, Richmond, Saeven, ThIiaferro, Warren and Wilkes
,
Health District. 8-1: Valdosta Judy Threlkeld Early Intervention Program 2100-C North Oak Street Valdosta, GA 31602 (912) 245-6565 or 1-800-241-6538 Fax (912) 245- 6561
Q:Junties Served: Ben Hill Berrien, Brooks, Cook, Echols, Irwin, Lanier, Lowndes, nft and Thmer
Health District 9-1: Savannah carol Downs Babies can't Wait Program Chatham County Public Health Department 11106 Mercy Boulevard, Building #8, Door B savannah. GA 31420 (912) 921-7480 Fax (912) 921-1490
Counties Served: Chatham and Effingham

o

Health District 9-3: Brunswick . J. Barty Cooper
Coastal Early Intervention 1609 Newcasde Street, Room 301 Brunswick, qA 31520 (912) 264-3961 Fax (912) 262-2315
Counties Served: Bryan, camden, Glynn, Liberty, Long and McIntosh

Health District 10: Athens

Connie Bruce

Babies can't WaitlEarly Intervention

468 North Milledge Avenue, Suite 206

Athens, Georgia 30601-3808

(106) 369-6101

Fax (106) 369-5109

Counties Served: Barrow, Clarke, Elbert, Greene,

Jackson, Madison, Morgan, OConee, Oglethorpe and

Walron

.

o

130

Health District 9-2: Waycross Jackie Woodard
I 1718 Reynolds Street Wayaoss. Georgia 31501 (912) 284-2552 or 1-800 429-6301 Fax (912) 281-6689 Counties served: Appling. ~tkinson, Bacon, Brantley, Bulloch, Candler, Charlton. Clinch, Coffee. Evans, )eff Davis, PieR:e. T.UtnaIl. lOOmbs, ware and Wayne
, State Office

Babies can't Wait Program Georgia Department of Huma~ Resources #2 Peachtree Street, N.E., 7th Floor-Room 7-315 Atlanta, GA 30303-3186 404-657-2727 or 2726 or Toll Free 1-888-651-8224 Fax 404-657-2763
Charlotte Duggan, ICC Coord. . Helen DuIock, Nursing Pr~am Specialist Wendy S. sanders, Babies Can't Wait Acting Project .
I Director; Children with sPecial Needs Acting Team
Leader
I Karen Sparkman, Acting COOrdinator of Technical Assistance Unit carol Vasbinder, Office Manager

Central Directory

I

1-800-229-2038 or in Atlanta 770-451-5484


131

Resources for Adoptions
o

Office of Adoptions. The focus of the Office of . Adoptions is to expedite safe and secure adoptive placements for children with special need who are 'currently in the permanent legal custody of the Georgia Department of Human Resources. The Office of Adoptions was created in response to recommendations from the Senate Study Committee on Foster care and Adoptions and in response to the 2002 Adoption Initiative to double the number of children with spedal needs legally ) finalized for adoptions by the year 2002. The Office'of Adoptions has a mission to develop and implement an efficient, quality, outcome-based, special needs adoption program that will focus on the development of private, licensed, adoption agencies as resources; as well as, the identification and elimination of barriers to adoption that currently exist in the state system.
)
Contact ITJIormation: State Office of Adoptions ' Suite 3.323 2 Peachtree Street, NW Atlanta, GA 30303-3142 (888) 460-2467 (Office of Adoptions Hotline) Web Site: http://www.adoptions.dhr.state.ga.us/ . textonly.htm
My Tum Now is a not-for-profit advocacy organization which facilitates the adoption of children with special needs. These children are either members of a minority race, children with disabilities, children over the age of eight, or members of a sibling group that need to be adopted togetherin other words, those traditionally considered to be unadoptable. Such children often linger in foster homes, waiting for "forever families," while many potential adoptive families are prevented from opening their hears and homes to them by misconceptions and lack of infonnation.
The Problem. Approximately 400 Georgia children with spedal needs are available at any given time to be adopted. Unfortunately, most of

these children are raised in temporary foster

homes, where on the average of every 18 months

they are moved to a new home and given a new

set of parents. These moves entail entering a new

physical environment and forming new relation-

ships, as well as severing existing ties.

My Thrn Now in a public-private partnership

with the Georgia Department of Human Resources,

publishes and updates monthly a listing book

containing photographs and descriptions of

Georgia children with special needs who are

eligible for adoption. In addition to the book, My

Thrn Now maintains a site on the world wide web

which also has photographs and descriptions of

waiting children. My Then Now is not a placement

agency, but it offers adoption information, referrals, support and advocacy.

0

More than 1,100 children have been adopted at ,

least in part because of their indusion in My Then

Now and the number of inquiries is in the

thousands and increasing every year:

This information is from the My Then Now

Website. To learn more about My Thrn Now and

specialneeds children in Georgia who are waiting

for p~ents, contact http://wWw.mytuennow.com/.

Children of Choice. Funded by a grant from the Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities, this project is focused on creating a working group to increase communication and collaboration among stakeholders to include public and private adoption agencies and advocacy organizations, disability advocacy organizations, and others on the issues surrounding the adoption of children with disabilities in Georgia. Approximately , 1/3 of Georgia children waiting to be adopted are children who have identified disabilities.
For more information about Joining the Children
0 of Choice Collaborative, please call Sherry Lee at
(706) 542-6089 or Email: salee@arches.uga.edu. Or mail to IHDD, 850 College Station Road, Athens, GA 30602-4806.

132




Support Networks

II




I.
e
Education
e
I
e

Educational Assistance i




I
i

I
i
I

Division for Exceptional Students

The Division for Exceptional Students exists to

help local school systemslprovide special educa-

tion and related services so that all children with

disabilities can develop irtto productive and successful citizens. The ~ivision for Exceptional

Students provides a wealth of services to local

lour school systems and regiofiaI education agencies. 1echnical Assistance: most important

service is technical assis~ce - information - to

help plan and develop spE1cial education programs.

Division staff members are knowledgeable about

the latest trends and tech~iques in special educa-

tion and can help you tr~late theory into practice

in your classrooms. They also can help evaluate current progranls and de~rmine program needs.

Networking: Division Staff members can connect schools with sta~-level services,' with other local school systemsI and with colleges and universities. Not only can ~we connect schools with

state funding and persomtel, but we can also help

get needed resources by Jqining with neighboring
systems. In addition, stat'fI members arrange In-

service and staff development workshops through

colleges and universities. I

Special Education Excllange Program

(SEEP): SEEP allows ~room teachers and

local administrators to vi~t other school systems

to see exemplary programs, called Promising

Practices. Federal funds pay travel costs and a

substitute teacher, allowing the SEEP participant

one to three days of exploration. I Resource manuals: ReSource manuals for each

special education program iarea and related

services are aVaIlable to classroom teachers. The

manuals include information on classroom mod-

els, resource lists, best practices and program

evaluation checklists. :

I

.

Orientation sessions: Each year the Division

sponsors a statewide conference for special

education administrators and an orientation

session for new special edlication directors.

Participants receive notebooks containing valuable

information on special eduCation policies, proce-

dures, resources and programs. The Division also conducts follow-up sessions annually. In addition, experienced local special education directors serve as mentors for new directors.
Workshops: Division staff members conduct regional and statewide workshops on topics related to each of the special education program areas, such as instruction of students with behavior disorders, hearing impairments or mild mental disab,ilities.
Other services and Resources
Georgia Learning Resources System (GLRS): The Division staff works very closely with the GLRS, a netWork of 17 regional centers that provide a support system for parents, teachers and administrators. GLRS centers maintain libraries of materials, including videos and computer labs, and arrange regional workshops. GLRS also maintains a toll-free telephone number (1-800-282-7552) to provide special education information to teachers and the general public.
Georgia Psychoedueational Network: Since 1970, the Georgia Psychoeducational Network has provided community-based special education services (including diagnosis, instruction, parent' support, social.work, and psychiatric consultation) for students with severe emotional disturbance, children with autism and their families. The network, which serves approximately 8,000 chlldren, is a model program. The Psychoedueational Network has been acknowledged in presentations at state, national and international conferences.
Low-inddence grants: School systems that do not earn enough state money to serve low-incidence populations, such as students with visual or hearing impairments, can apply for funding to provide direct instruction services for those children.
lUition grants: When services are not available locally to meet the needs of a student with severe disabilities, systems can receive state funding to

137

help offset tuition costs for a private residential program called for in an IEP. \
State Advisory Panel for Special Education: A 23-member panel helps parents and local school systems by receiving and responding to public comment. presenting an annual report to the Georgia Board of Education and advising the Georgia Department of Education of unmet needs for the education of students with disabilities.
Where to Get More Information
All it takes is a telephone caJ!. While Exceptional Students tries as often as possible to provide services on a regional basis, staff members are available for the individual local consultation.
Let us know what is needed. A consultant will visit, spend a day or two, and help determine how to accomplish what is needed or how to overcome specific problems. We're here to help.
For more information, please call P. Paulette Bragg, Director, Division of Exceptional Students, at (404) 656-3963, or send e-mail to, pbragg@doe.kI2.ga.us.
State Department of Education: Special Education P. Paulette Bragg, Director Division for Exceptional Students GA Department of Education 1870 'lWin Towers East Atlanta, GA 30334 (404) 656-3963 E-mail: pbragg@doe.kI2.ga.us Web: www.doe.kI2.ga.us/sla/exceptional/ exceptional.html
Programs for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities: Ages Birth through 2 Wendy Sanders, Project Director Babies can't Wait Program Division of Public Health Department of HU,man Resources 2 Peachtree Street, Room 7-315 Atlanta. GA 30303-3166 (404) 657-2726 Web: www2.state.ga.us/departments/DHRI
Programs for Children with Disabilities: Ages 2 through 5 . Toni Waylor-Bowen, Consultant Preschool Special Education Georgia Department of Education 1870 'lWin Towers East

Atlanta, GA 30334-5060 '(404) 657-9955 . Web: www.doe.kI2.ga.usJsla/exceptionall
exceptional.html
State Vocational RehabUltation Agency Valencia WDson-Thomas. '
Business Development Representative Department of Human Resources
Division of Rehabilitation services
2 Peachtree Street, NW, ROOm 35-403 Atlanta, GA.303030-3166 (404) 657-3053 E-mail: vathomas@dhr.state.ga.us Web: www2.state.ga.,us/departments/dhr/ rehab.html

'0

Office of State Coordination of Vocational

Education for Students with Disabilities

Jeff Chandler, Intervention Specialist

Department of Education .

Vocational Education Special Needs Unit

1752 'lWin Towers East

Atlanta, GA 30334

(404) 657-8324

E-mail: Jchandle@doe.kI2.ga.us

State Mental Health Representative for

0

Children and Youth

I Dawne Morgan, Child & Adolescent Mental Health

Program Chief '

Division'of Mental Health/Mental Retardationl

Substance Abuse

Department of Human Resources 2 Peachtree Street, N.W., 23rd Floor

Atlanta, G!'o- 30303-3142

(404) 657-2157

E-mail:

Programs for Children with Special Health care,

Needs

Rosalyn Bacon, Director

.Adolescent Health & Youth Development

DHRlDPHlfHB

.

2 Peachtree Street, NW, Suite 8-206

Atlanta, GA 30303

(404) 657-2850

E-mail: rkb@4hr.state.ga.us

State Education Agency Rural Representative P. Paulette Bragg, Director

0

Division for Exceptional Students

GA Department of Education

1870 1\vin Towers East

138



Atlanta, GA 30334

(404) 656-3963

E-mail: pbragg@doe.k12Jga.us

Web: www.doe.k12.ga.us,/sla/exceptionall

exceptio~al.html

I

Southeast Disability & ~usiness 'technical

Assistance center (SE DBTAC)

490 Tenth 51.

I

Atlanta, GA 30318

I

Phone: 800-949-4232

Fax: 404-385-0641 :
Web Site: http://www.se~btac.org

Email: se-dbtac@mindspring.com

The SE DBTAC. a projEkt of United Cerebral
Palsy, is one of 10 region~ resource centers

established in 1991 to help implement the Ameri-
Act: cans with Disabilities (ADA) of 1990. Funded

for 10 years by the National Institute on Disability

and Rehabilitation Reseatch (NIDRR). the project

is actually a network of organizations who provide

I ADA Information and Referral services to the
southeastregion.

Collaborative partners of the SE DBTAC are
Alabama, Florida. Georgi~. Kentucky. Mississippi,

North carolina, South carolina and Tennessee. The
Southeast DBTAC consis~ of a regional center

located in Atlanta. State and LocalDBTAC affili-

ates are located in each of the eight southeastern

states served by the projef;t.

You can call. write, En$il or look on the web
as site for materials to use you condua ADA
trainings and resources ~ use in your own ADA

implementation activities.! The web site also has

updates on ADA focused lu:tivities. progress

reports and success stories in the Southeast

Region. It also contains lillks to other infonnative

sites about the Americans with Disabilities Act.

I

.

Georgia Evaluation Projkt for Students with

I

Disabilities

:

Stephanie Dirst, Ed. D. Dlfector

542 Church Street, Suite 150

Decatur, GA 30030

I

(404) 378-5433. FAX: (494) 371-8245

Since 1969, this project has provided compre-

hensive medical and psychoeducational evalua-

tions to students with disabilities to give direction

to the local school system 'and the family. The

program includes aU disabling conditions. Evalua-

tions usually last four days.

Eligibility. Residents ofGeorgia. age birth

through 21, who have more than one known or suspected disabling condition are eligible to request services.
Services. Educational work-ups are completed
in a fully equipped diagnostic classroom by certified teachers/evaluators. Interpreters are provided for multi-cultural evaluations. The specialists consulted and the batteries of tests used vary depending on the needs of the student.
A physician compiles a medical history and . provides a physical examination. An opthamologist, an audiologist, a speech and language pathologist and a psychologist are part of the diagnostic team. Each specialist has been with the program for a number of years and is familiar with working with students with disabilities.
Frequently, consultations include neurology, psychiatry, medical genetics and otology. OCCUpation and physical therapy evaluations are provided as needed. All medical specialties are available. At the conclusion of the evaluation, a comprehensive report is written for the family and the student's school system.
The staff frequently provide presentations and workshops on issues concerning low-incidence disabilities at the request of schools, agencies, organizations and parents.
OTIlER RESOURCES mAT MAY OFFER EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE
State Vocational RehabUitatiOD Agency valencia WDson-1bomas, Business Development
Representative Department of Human Resources Division of RehabWtation services 2 Peachtree Street, NW, Room 35-403 Atlanta, GA 30303-3166 . E-mail: vathomas@dhr.state.ga.us Web: www2.state.ga.usJdepartmentsldhr/rehab.html
State Mental Health Agency Division of Mental HealthlMental RetardatiOn/Substance Abuse Department of Human Resources 2 Peachtree Street, NW, 22nd Floor Atlanta, GA 30303 (404) 657-2252 Web: www2.state.ga.us/departmentsIDHR

139

State Mental Retardation Program Charles Hopkins, Interim Mental Retardation
Program Chief Division of Mental Health/Mental Retardation/Substance Abuse Departmento( Human Resources 2 Peachtree Street, NW, 23rd floor Atlanta, GA 30303-3142 (404) 651-2140 E-mail: chopkins@dmh.dhr.ga.us Web: www2.state.ga.uslDepartmentsIDHR

Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities Eric Jacobson, Executive Director Governor's Council on Devdopmental Disabilities 2 Peachtree Sn:eet, NW, 3rd Floor, Suite 210 Atlanta, GA 30303-3142 E-mail: eej@dhr.state.ga.us Web: www.ga.ddcouncil.org

Protection and Advocacy Agency

Joyce Ringer, Executive Director

Georgia Advocacy office

_

100 Crescent centre Parkway, Suite 520

1\Jcker, GA 30084

-

(404) 885-1234 (V11TY); (800) 531-2329 (in GA only)

(710) 414-2948 Fax

e-mail: olwyn@earthlink.net

University Aftlliated Program Zolinda Stoneman, Director Institute on Human Development and Disability (IHDD) The University of Georgia 850 College Station Road Athens, GA 30601-4806 (106) 542-3451 (106) 542-4815 Fax (106) 542-6629 TIY Web: www.uap.uga.edu

ltchnology Related Assistance Joy Kniskern, Project Director Georgia Tools for Life Division of RehabOitation services 2 Peachtree Street, N. Suite 35-415 Atlanta, GA30303-3142 (404) 651-3082; (800) 491-8665; (404) 651-3085 (TIY) E-mail: joykniskem@atfl.org Web: www.gatfi.org

Parent Training and Information Project Linda Shephard, laVerne Bomar, co-directors Parents Educating Parents and ProfE;ssionals (PEPP, Inc.) 6613 East Church Street, Suite 100 Douglasville, GA 30134 (710) 511-1111; (710) 511-1114 Fax E-mail: peppaC@beUsouth.net Web site: www.peppac.org

Parent-to-Parent cathy Spraetz, Executive Director Parent to Parent of Georgia, Inc. 2812 Woodcock Boulevard, Suite 230 Atlanta, GA 30341 (110) 451-5484 E-mail: infor@parenttoparentofga.org . Web: www.partenttoparentofga.org
Parent ~cherAssociatiation (PTA) cathy Henson. President Georgia Congress of Parents and Teachers, Inc. 113 Baker Street, NE Atlanta, GA 30308-3366 (404) 659-0214 E-mail: gapta@mindspring.com Web: www.georgiapta.org
Postsecondary Education Georgia Association of Disability Service Providers in
Higher Education (GADSPHE) lticia Jacob, president Debra Brenner, secretary office of Disability services University of G~rgia Clark Howell Hall Athens, GA 30602 (706) 542-8119;(706) 542-8718 TIY (106) 542-1119 Fax e-mail: dbrenner@arches.uga.edu

o
o
o

140

,Educatio~al Scholarships




I
Blind and \1ifually Impaired

I

American Action Fund fOf Blind Children and Adults

18440 OXnard Street .

Tc1rzana, CA 91356

i

Offers charitable and educational fund, braille

assistance devices and a li~rary for the visually im-

paired. '

! American Council of the Blind 1155 15th Street, NW., Suite 720

Washington, DC 20005 :
(800) 424-8666 (2:30 - 5:30 ES11

(202) 467-5081

'

Fax: (202) 467-5085

,I

,

Provides scholarships annually to post-seoondary

students who are blind. Also publishes a listing of other scholarships available to ~dents who are blind or

visually impaired.

I

,

,

,I.

American Foundation for the Blind, Inc.

Attn: SCholarship Coordinator

15 West 16th Street

I

New York. NY lOO11

(800) 232-5463
Offers several scholarships for undergraduate and
graduate students who are legally blind and who are

studying education or rehabRitation. Awards are

$2.500.

Association for Education 'and Rehabilitation of the
Blind and Vasually Impaired 4600 Duke Street. Suite 430,
p.o. Box 22397
Alexandria. VA 22304 (703) 823-9690

Blinded Veterans Association

477 H. Street, NW

,

Washington, DC 20001-2691

(800) 669-7079

(202) 371-8880

Limited to children and ~uses of blinded veterans.

Christian Record services, Inc. 4444 South 52nd Street '

PO Box 6097

Lincoln, NE 68506-0097

(402) 488-0981

Fax: (402) 488-7582

,

Email: aspresidenl@juno.com

A limited number of scholarships for outstanding students who are legally blind who are planning to attend college on the undergraduate level to secure training that will enable independence and self-support. Award for the 1998-99 school years were in the amount of $500 each.
Council of Citizens with Low VISion International (CCLV) 1859 North Washington Avenue, Suite 2000 Clearwater, FL 33755-1862 (800) 733-2258'
Jewish Braille Institute of America 110 East 30th Street New York, NY 10016 (212) 889-2525
Offered to students who are legally blind and wish to become rabbis. cantors, or Jewish educators.
La sertoma International 5831 Outlook, Suite 10 Mission, KS 66202 (913) 287-3119 , Limited to graduate students who are preparing to assist people who are blind.
Lions International 300 22nd Street
oakbrook. n. 60570
RDnnie Mibap Foundation
600 Renaissance center
Detroit, MI 48234
NationalAssociation for-Parents of the VisuaIJy Impaired 1445 Baird Road
santa Rosa. CA 95409
(800) 562-6265 NAPVl SChoJarshipS/Awards for visually impaired
students vary from $250 - $500. December 'deadline.
National Federation of tbe Blind Ms. Peggy'Elliott, Chairman National Federation of the Blind SCholarship Committee 814 4th Avenue, Suite 200 GrinneD, lA 50112 (515) 236-3366 http://www.eduzone.comlscholarIBUND.HTM

141

Opportunities for the Blind, Inc. PO Box 510 Leonardtown, MD 20650 (800) 884-1990
Provides financial assistanceJor career-oriented purposes such as graduatt: school tuition assistance, vocational grants, job counseling/placement services, aids and applicances.
Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic 20 Rozelle Road Princeton, NJ 08540 (609) 452-0606
Limited to students who are blind or Visually impaired or who have learning disabilities.
Cerebral Palsy
United cerebral Palsy Foundation 66 East 34th Street New York, NY 10016 Web Site: www.ucpa.org/htrnllhistory/network.htrnl
VCP is the leading source of information on cerebral palsy and is a pivotal advocate for the rights of persons with any disability. In fact, 65% of people served by UCP have disabilities other than cerebral palsy.
Deaf and Hard of Hearing
Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf 3417 Volta Place, N.W. Washington. D.C. 20007-2778 (202) 337-5220 Financial AidJor Parent-II]/ant Preschool Services
Provides financial aid to the parents of infants who have a severe to profound hearing-impairment and are enrolled in a preschool.
Services Provided: An award of money depending on the need of the child; most awards ranging from $300 to $1000 per year. May be renewed, but preference is given to new applicants.
Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must be parents or guardians of children less than 5 years old who have been diagnosed as haVing a severe to profound hearing loss (greater than 70 decibel loss in the,speech frequencies of 500Hz. 1000Hz. and 2000Hz).,The parent or guardian must be committed to auditory/oral philosophy of education for the child, including the development of the child's listening, speech. oral communication. and thinking skills. Must request application by middle of September of the year you are applying and all application materials must be postmarked by early OCtober. Write or call for application.
Financial AidJor Post-Secondary Education This agency has many awards with different names
but similar eligibility requirements.
Applicants must be students who are oral deaf and
were born with a profound hearing impairment or who suffered this type of loss before acquiring language
They must use speech and residual hearing and lor speech reading (lipreading) and their preferred. customary form of communication

Demonstrate a potential for leadership Applicants must be accepted by or already enrolled in a regular. full-time college or universil}' program for hearing students. Applicants who have disabilities in addition to their hearing impairments are encouraged to apply. Applications must be in by April of each year. Write or call for application.

o

The Children's Hearing Institute 130 East 77th St New York. N.Y. 10921 (212).434-6675 V. (212) 434-6680 Fax
The Evelyn Glennie National Music Scholarship competition is instituted to encourage the pursuit of instrumental musk among children who are deaf or hard of hearing. The scholarships are based on accomplishments, interests, and involvement of the candidates in instrumental music. Three $1,500 awards are made for beginning, intermediate and advanced level skills. and are to be applied toward tuition or private lessons.

The'Ear Foundation

Baptist Hospital. Administrative office

181 7 Patterson Street

.

NaShville. TN 37203

Phone: (615)329-7807

Fax: (615) 329-7935

(VoicelTDD) (800) 545-HEAR

Website: www.theearfound.org

The Minnie Pearl Scholarship Fund helps many

hearing-impaired high school and college students
further their education at colleges. universities and
technical schools ~cross the United States. Countly

music entertainer Mrs. sarah cannon. also known as

Minnie Pearl. was instrumental in establishing this

scholarship fund which bears her stage name. With the

aid of this scholarship. young hearing-impaired people can take a more attive role in mainstream socie1}' by

reaching their fun potential as productive adults in our

hearing world.

o

11te Geoffrey Foundation
PO Box 1112 ocean Avenue Kennebunkport, ME 04046 (207) 967-5798
Limited to students who are deaf or hard of hearing and utilizing an auditorylverbal approach to communication.

o



Limited to graduate students who are deaf or hard of hearing.
I
National Information certter on Deafness Gallaudet University 800 Florida Avenue. NE Washington. DC 20002 (201) 651-5050 Voice (202) 651-5052 TIY .
NICD provides information on all aspects of hearing loss and deafness. Fact sheets are available at a cost of $1.00 each on careers in d~fness. sources of fmancial aid information for students who are deaf or hard of hearing and several other topics.
t
Ep~lepsy

'-

Parke Davis Epilepsy SCholarship Award

clo IntraMed

Attn: John Bayliss

1180 Avenue of the Americas

New York. NY 10036

(800) 292-1313

Limited to students with. epilepsy who are pursuing a

college education.

:

Epilepsy Foundation 4251 Garden City Drive Landover MD 20185

General

Amerisan Speech-Language-Hearing Association

(ASHA)

office of Multicultural Affairs

10801 Rockville Pike

'

Rockville. MD 20852

(301) 891-5100 x211 I

Offers a free publication "Communication SCiences

and Disorders: Funding SOurces for Multicultural

Students" which contains a section on financial aid for

individuals with disabilities.

ASHA also sponsors the Leslie Isenberg Fund for

full-time disabled graduate student in communication

sciences and disorder programs.

Full-time graduate students with a disability enrolled

in a communication sciences and disorders program and

demonstrating outstanding academic achievement are

eligible to compete for a $2,000 scholarship.

,

central Intelligence Agency (CIA)

Personnel Representative ..

Undergraduate SCholar Program

PO Box 12121

.

Arlington. VA 22209-8121

(800) JOBCIA

(103) 482-0611

Chairscholars Foundation, Inc. Hugo and Alicia Keirn 16101 carencia Lane Odessa, FL 33556 (813) 920-2131

Limited to high school seniors and college freshmen who have a Serious physical disability.
Charlotte W. Newcombe Foundation 35 Park Place
Princeton, NJ 08542-6918
(609) 924-7022 Newcombe Scholarships for Physically Disabled
Students (For disabled students with financial need. Number and amounts of awards vary. OCtober deadline.
C.R. Newton Company 1515 South Beretania Street, Suite 101 . Honolulu. HI 96826 (808) 949-8389
C.R Newton SCholarship for the Disabled ($2,000 award for a disabled student with a grade point average, of at least 3.0.)
Disabled Student Award Bowie State University BOwie. MD 20115-3318 (301) 193-0646
Disabled Student Award (Full tuition for student with physical or learning disability. April deadline.)
Eccleston-callahan Memorial 'nust Nations Bank PO Box 8150 Winter Park. FL 32190-8150
Provides awards to seven Rorida educational institutions (induding the University of Florida and Florida A&M University) for students who have a disability and are pursuing careers in a health profession.
Electronic Industries Foundation 919 18th Street, NW, Suite 900 Washington, DC 20006
(202) 955-5822 or (202) 955-5837
Contact TIm Farr, Director, Research and Technology Applications akee@mllkern.com
Foundation for Exceptional Children-SCholarshJp Awards 1999-2000 1920 Association Drive Reston. VA 20191 (103) 264-3501
The Foundation for Exceptional Children is accepting applications for the Stanley E. Jackson SCholarships Awards (Awards 1 through 4. below) and Infinitee Scholarship Awards (Award 5. beloW) to be applied toward fuD-time. post-:-5eCOndary education or training during 1999-2000. Post-secondary education or training includes two and four year undergraduate college programs or vocational. technical or fine arts training programs.
"The Stanlt;Y E./ackson SCholarship Awards honor Stanley E. Jackson. Mr. Jackson was a pioneer and leader in the special education community. The ll]/initec ScholllTShip Award is sponsored by infinitec. Inc., a joint project of United Cerebral Palsy Association of

143

Greater Chicago and DCPA, Inc., the national organiza-

tion. The mission of the Infinitec corporation is to

enable people with disabilities to gain access to tech-

nologies which advance independence." Infinitec. Inc.

has generously agreed to spOnsor scholarship award

number 5. '

Applicants must be anticipating enrollment, for the

first time in full-time, past-secondary education or

training during 1999-2000 and provide evidence of

financial need. Different recipients will be selected for

each award category. No person will reCeive more than

one award, and past recipients are ineligible for current

or future awards.

-

The following criteria must be met for each award.

Award #1: Applicant must have a disability,

Award #2: Applicant must have a disability and also

be a member of an ethnic minority group, such as Afro-

American, Hispanic, Native American or Asian.

Award #3: Applicant must have a disability and have

also demonstrated gifted and/or talented abilities in any

one or more of the following categories: general intellec-

tual abiiItly, specific academic aptitude, creativity.

leadership, visual or performing arts.

Award #4: Same as Award #3 and also be a member

of an ethnic minority group, such as Afro-American,

Hispanic, Native American or Asian.

Award #5: Applicant must use an augmentative

communication device or other technology-based

, alternative to oral communication. Qualilfying commu-

nication devices and systems range along a continuum

from simple picture boards to highly complex computer-

based systems.

Multiple scholarship awards will be made in each of

the award categories. For Award #5. one $1.000

scholarship and one $500 scholarship will be awarded.

Foundation for Physical Therapy 1055 North Fairfax Street. Suite 350 Alexandria, VA 22314 (703) 684-5984
Sunrise Medical SCholarship for Disabled Students (1\\'0 $1,200 awrds for students with disabilities preparing for careers in physical therapy.)

Foundation for SCience and Disability, Inc.

Richard Mankin, Grants Committee Chair

503 NW 89th Street

'

GainesviIle. FL 32607:-1400

Limited to science students with a disability entering

a Master's or Doctorate Degree program in engineering,

match, computer science, or medicine.

Foundation for SCience and the'Handicapped c/o S. P. Steamer 154 Juliet Court Clarenden Hills, IL 60514

Heath Resource center One DUpOnt Cirde, NW. Suite 800 Washington, DC 20036-1193 (800) 544-3284

National4-H Council

7100 Connecticut Avenue Chevy Chase. MD 20815

0

(301) 961-2800

NationsBank Abilities SCholarship Program

PO Box 1465

Thylors, SC 29687

(86~) 268-3363

.

Awarded to students with disabilities who have

permanent residence or attend school in multiple states

induding Georgia. Applicants must demonstrate a 3.0

cumulative grade pOint average and have a declared

interest in finance. business, or computer systems.

The President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities 1331 F. Street, NW Washington, DC 20004 (202) 376-6200

lbny Orlando Yellow Ribbon SCholarship National Tourism Foundation 546 East Main Street Lexington. KY 40508
Limited to students with physical and/or sensory
disabilities who are planning a career in the travel and . tourism industry.

National Clearinghouse for Professions in Special Education

0

The Council for Exceptional Children

1920 Association Drive

Reston. VA 20191-1589

(800) 641-7824

(703) 264-9476

(703) 264-9480 ( T I Y ) .

Limited to those who are preparing to enter the field

of special Education.

Venture Clubs Student Aid Award and Venture Clubs of America Handicapped Student SCholarship 1\\'0 Penn center Plaza, Suite 1000 Philadelphia. PA 19012-1883 (215) 557-9300
Offered to individuals with physical disabilities who are in need of further education.

Very Special Arts Young Soloists Program Attention: sara Qureshi 1300 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 700 Washington. DC 20036 (800) 933-8721 (202) 628-2800 (202) 737-0645 (TIY)
Limited to student aged 25 and under studying selected musical instruments.

144



Genetic Im~une Deficiency
Immune Deficiency foundation 25 West Chesapeake Avenue, Suite 206 Towson, MD 21204
(800) 296-4433
Limited to students with primary genetic immune deficiency.

Hemophilia

National Hemophilia foundation 110 Greene Street New York, NY 10012
(800) 42-HANDI

Respirator-Dependent

I

Lifecare SCholarship for Respirator-Dependent

505 central Avenue

.

Boulder, CO 80301

Spina Bifida



Spina Bifida Association of America 4590 MacArthur Boulevard; NW, Suite 250 Washington, DC 20007-4226
(800) 6212-3141
(202) 944-3285
Dana Walters SCholarship foundation, Inc. PO Box 723243 Atlanta, GA 31139
(770) 436-0190

, Many of the following service organizations offer combinations of local, state or national scholarships. for further information, contact them at the addresses below, or locally. Other civic ,or service groups may also offer scholarshps or grants iii your local area. The local reference librarian or United Way contact person can . assist you in finding local resources.

American Business Woman's Association Scholarship Counselor ABWA National Headquarters 9100 Ward Parkway P.O. Box 8728 Kansas City, MO 64114

lbe Rotary foundation SCholarships 1600 Ridge Avenue Evanston, IL 60201



Kiwanis International 3636 Woodview Kiwanis International Trace Indianapolis, IN 46268
Lions International 300 22nd Street Oakbrook, IL 60570

Soroptimist International of the Americas Youth Citizenship Award 1616 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19103
Other private sources of financial aid exist at the campus level. 1b locate campus based aid, first contact the financial Aid office and Office of Services for Students with Disabilities at the schools you plan to attend or are considering attending.
Many unique situations which have nothing to do with disability may make you eligible for private scholarships. These may include parents place or type of work; military experience; ethnic background, student's career goals; religious affiliation, extracurricular activities, etc. Such scholarships may be researched by purchasing or borrowing books about financial aid from a school or public library.

145

Georgia Learning Resources System

~ (GLRS)

..

.

o

The Georgia Learning Resources System is a technical support system which was established in 1971 as a component of the new statewide initiative to serve exceptional students. The chief objective of the project was to provide necessary support services to teachers assigned to work with . children with disabilities.
During the following years GLRS was expanded both in personnel and in services. In addition to the Director and the Secretary/Librarian, a third staff member was added. This person is called a Child Serve Director who works with child identification; placement, reporting, and follow-up. Services have also been extended to parents, students, administrators, regular educators, and related services personnel.
At the present time the statewide network of offices provides the following services to every school system in the. state:
Information dissemination Referral network for diagnostic evaluations of
students with severe/multiple disabilities

How to contact the GLRS State Office
Georgia Learning Resources5ystem (GLRS) Division for Exceptional Students Georgia Department of Education
1870 1Win Towers East Atlanta, GA 30334-5044 (404) 657-9958 Fax (404) 651-6457
Child identification, placement, reporting, and follow-up
0 Material and equipment collection
Individual Educational Plan CIEP) development, implementation, and review '
Personnel development (CSPD) Information and training for parents Direction services Recruitment

GLRS DIRECOON CENTER TOLL FREE NUMBER 1-800-282-7552

Coastal Area GLRS Armstrong State College Room 2, Health SCience Building 11935 Abercorn Street Savannah. GA 31419 Phone: (912) 927-5239 or 1-800-827-5239/GIST 369-5239 Fax: (912) 921-5498 Email: doris@glrs.utilnet
East central GLRS 1835-8 Westgate center Dublin,GA 31021 Phone: (912) 275-3522 Fax: (912) 275-3522 Email: ecglrs@plannel.net

satellite center
Springfield central Elementary 434 Wallace Drive Springfield, GA 31329 Phone: (912) 154-3326
, serves Systems in: Bryan, camden, Chatham, Effingham, Glynn, Liber1y, Long, McIntosh Counties and R. Stewart
serveS Systems in: BaldWin, Bleckley, Dodge, Hancock. Jasper, Johnson, Laurens, Montgomery, Pulaski, Putnam, Thlfair, Ti'euden, Washington, Wheeler, Wilcox, Wilkinson Counties: Dublin City
146

o



East Georgia GLRS 3108 Lake Forest Drive Augusta, GA 30909 Phone: (706) 731-8777 1-800-282-75552 Fax: (706) 731-8731 Email: basilj6@boe.richmone.kI2.ga.us
Metro East GLRS Jim ChellY Center 24 15-C North Druid Hills Road, NE Atlanta, GA 30329 Phone: (404) 325-3011 Fax: (404) 329-0544 Email: schreinl@dcss.dekalb.k12.ga.us
Metro South GLRS 814 Experiment Street Griffin, GA 30223 Phone: (770) 412-4082 Fax: (770) 412-4084 Email: glrs@r~saacademy.org
Metro West GLRS Metro RESA 2268 Adams Drive, NW Atlanta, GA 30318 Phone: (404) 352-2697 Fax: (404) 352-2676 Email: lin@rnresa.org; jan@rnresa.org
Middle Georgia GLRS 3169 Ridge Avenue
Macon, GA 3 i 204
Phone: (912),471-5400 Fax: (912) 411-5433 Emai1:mgglrS@mylink.net bcje22a@prodigy.com
4525~hnet.camp11S.mci.net
North Georgia GLRS 1342 Highway 254 Cleveland. GA 30528 Phone: (106) 865-2141 Fax: (706) 865-6748 Email: pwright@sun.pioneer.resa.k12.ga.us sparker@sun.pioneer.resa.kI2.ga.us
North central GLRS Route 9, Box 9232-A Ellijay, GA 30540 Phone: (106) 276-1111 Fax: (706) 276-1114 Email: donenis@ellijay.com
Northeast Georgia GLRS 375 Winter Street Winterville, GA 30683 Phone: (706) 742-8292/GIST 241-7675 Fax: (706) 742-8928 Email: strotter@negaresa.org
I

Serves Systems in: Burke. Columbia. Emanuel, Glascock, Jefferson. Jenkins. Lincoln, McDuffie, Richmond, Thliaferro, Warren, and Wilkes Counties
serves Systems in: Dekalb, Fulton,
Gwinnett. Rockdale Counties; .~uford and Decatur Cities
serves Systems in: Butts. Fayette. Griffin-Spalding, Henry. Lamar, Newton, Pike and Thomaston-Upson Counties
serves Systems in: Clayton. Cobb. ~uglas Counties: Atlanta. Marietta Cities
serves Systems in: Bibb, Crawford.
Houston. Jones, Monroe, Peach. and 1\viggs Counties
Han. serves Systems in: Banks. Dawson.
Forsyth. Franklin. Habersham. Hart.
Lumpkin. Rabun. Stephens. Towns. Union. White Counties: and Gainesville City.
serves Systems in: Cherokee. Fannin. Gilmer. Murray, Pickens. and Whitefield Counties: Dalton City
serves Systems in: Barrow, Clarke. Elbert. Greene, Jackson. Madison, Morgan. Oconee, Oglethorpe. and Walton Counties: Commerce, Jefferson, and Social Circle Cities

147

Northwest Georgia GLRS

serves Systems in: Bartow, catoosa,

P.O. Box 1831

Chattoga, Dade, floyd, Gordon, Haralson,

Rome, GA 30162-1831

Paulding, Polk, and Walker Counties:

Phone: (106) 295-6189/GIST 231-6189

Bremen, calhoun, catersville,

Fax: (106) 296-6098

Chickamauga, Rome and nion Cities

Email: jpullen@roman.net;phoward@roman.net

South central GLRS 131 0 Bail~ Street Waycross, GA 31501
Phone: (912) 285-61911GIST 368-6191 Fax: (912) 281-6654 Email: okresa@almatel.net

serves Systems in: Atkinson, Bacon, Brantley, Charlton, Clinch, Coffee. Pierce and Ware COunties

South Georgia GLRS 414 North Robinson Lenox, GA 31631 Phone: (912) 546-4361 Fax: (912) 546-4161 Email: glrs@planttel.net

serves Systems in: Ben Hill, Berrien, Brooks, Cook, Echols, Irwin, Lanier, Lowndes. TIft. and Thmer Counties: Valdosta City

Southeast Georgia GLRS

serves Systems in: Appling, Bulloch,

Sally Meadows campus P.O. Box 483 Vidalia. GA 30415-0483

candler, Evans, Jeff Davis, Screven, Thttnall, Toombs, and Wayne Counties:

Phone: (912) 531-7191

Fax: (912) 531-7132

1-800-585-1251

Email: fwaugh@pineland.net;Ltmorris@pineland.net

Southwest Georgia GLRS 433 MercerAvenue Albany, GA 31101 Phone: (912) 435-9151

serves Systems in: Baker, calhoun, Colquitt, Decatur. Dougherty, Early, Grady. Lee, Miller, Mitchell, seminole. Terrell,

Fax: (912) 435-1528

,Email: broote@dougherty.kI2.ga.us.Lmerritt@dougher1y.kI2.ga.us

West central GLRS 99 Brown SChool Drive Grantville. GA 30220 Phone: (110)583-2528 Fax: (710) 583-3223 Email: swhite@glrs.org, ddwight@glrs.org

serves Systems in: Carroll, Coweta.Harris. Heard, Meriwether, and noui> COunties: carrollton City

West Georgia GLRS Claflin center
1532 Fifth Avenue Columbus, GA 31901 Phone: (106) 649~0142. Fax: (106) 641-4044 Email: gawglrs@edu.gte;net
State Administration

serves Systems in: Chattahoochee, Clay, Crisp, Dooly, Macon, Marion, Muscogee. Quitman, Randolph, SChley, Stewart, Sumter, Thlbot, Thylor, and Webster Counties

Georgia Learning Resources System (GLRS) and Child serve Marlene Bryar - (404) 657-9958
Disabilities services for Students with Assistive 1tchnology Marlene Bryar - (404) 651-9958
Kim Hartsell - 5271 Ash Street, Forest Park, GA 30050; (404) 362-2024 Autism
Susan McKenzie - 1870 1\vin Towers East, Atlanta, GA; (404) 657-9965 Educationally Deprived (Disabled)
John Hooper - 18521\vin Towers East, Atlanta, GA; (404) 656-2436

148

o o
o




.
Employment

I


Employment




..Americans with disabilities still face gaps in securing jobs, education, accessible public transportation,and in many areas of daily life including recreation and worship, according to a new survey of 1,000 adults with disabilities. The survey was commissioned by the National Organization on . Disability (NOD) in cooperation with Louis Harris & Associates. This survey is the first such national poll taken by Harris in cooperation with NOD since 1994, and the third conducted by Harris since
1986.
..Among the most startling findings about the workforce, the research exposed significant gaps between the employment rates of people with disabilities who work versus those without disabilities. Only 29% of people with disabilities of working age (18-64) work full or part time, compared to 79% of the population without disabilities. Approximately one in five (20%) of adults with disabilities have not completed high school compared to 9% of adults who do not have disabilities...
As illustrated in the above quotations from
careers & the DisAbled Magazine, many people
with disabilities are not included in the work .force. Many people with disabilities want to work. In addition to the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, there are many other resources for people with disabilities who want to go to work. Included below are a sample of Internet sites and other resources which have information about employment for people with disabilities. Some of them even have job matching and resume building
services.



Goodwill Industries is one of the world's largest nonprofit providers of employment and training services for people with disabilities and other disadvantaging conditions. Goodwill has more than 1,500 retail stories throughout North American and beyond. Goodwill also provides contract services to community-based businesses. Nearly 83% of Goodwill revenues go to pay for job
training/placement programs and other critical

community services. Goodwill employment and

training programs vary to meet the needs of local

communities. Most Goodwill organizations provide

vocational evaluation, vocational adjustment, job-

seeking skills/placement and transitional employ-

ment (when competitive employment is n9t a

realistic short-term goal). Other organizations

offer personal social adjustment training, case

management for workers with industrial injuries.

supported employment and skills training. Skills

training often includes high-demand fields such as

computer programming, electronics, flnancial \

services, janitorial work and food service. Goodwill

continues to support the graduates of its programs

even after they enter the workforce arid these

follow-up services contribute to graduates con-

tinuing success.

.

To locate the Goodwill center nearest you or for

more information about Goodwill, you can check

out their Web site at http://www.goodwill.orgt.

abouUeet.htm or call (301) 530-6500 or Email .

Alicia Rodriguez at alicia@goodwill.org.

\,.'

JobAccess/Job search is an Internet site (http:// www.jobaccess.orgIjobs.htm) which provides a place where people with disabilities can seek employment and be sure that they will be assessed only on their skills and experience. Also provides a Resume Builder which helps users to build and post a professional looking resume that companies across the US .will be able to browse.

Ready, Willing and Available is a booklet prepared by volunteers from companies with long records of hiring people who have physical, mental or learning disabilities. This booklet, sponsored by the President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities, is written to share information about the advantages of hiring people with disabilities, data that shows that the cost of employer-provider insurance is not affected by hiring a person with disabilities and information about the usually minimal cost of job accommodations. This booklet also informs employers about

151

the many resources available to ensure employ-

Other Resources

ment opportunities for people with disabilities that are available to them.

Disabled American Veterans

0

Contact the President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities at 1331 F. Street, NW, Washington, DC 20002, (202) 376-'

897 Maine Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20024 (202) 554-33501

6200 or (202) 376-6205 TIY.

-

Independence center of Northern Vuginia

2111 Wilson Blvd., Suite 400

Georgia Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities -

Arlington, VA 22201 (703) 525-3268

Lee Miller, Chair 6810 Creekview Ct.
Columbus, GA 31904
(706) 324-2150; (706) 324-4549 Fax

Gallaudet University career center
800 florida Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002 (202) 651-5270

e-mail: leeamiller@att.net Natasha Bannan, Administrative Assistant
Division of Rehabilitation Services 2 Peachtree St. NW, 35th Floor Atlanta, GA 30303-3166

International center for the Disabled
Placement D~artment
340 East 24tH Street
New York, NY 10010
(212) 679- 0100, Ext. 360

(404) 657-3023; (404) 657-3086 e-mail: nabannan@dhr.state.ga.us The committee is working on three major initiatives shared by the President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities:

Job Opportunities for the Blind
National center for the BUnd 1800JohnsonStteet Baltimore, MD 21230

Business Leadership Network (over 80 Georgia

Mainstream

businesses are part of this network). High School/High Tech (32 high schools are

3 Bethesda Metto center, Suite 830

Bethesda, MD 20814

.

0

participating in this project with a goal to include

(301) 654-2400

many more schools around the state). Youth Leadership Forums (this initiative is

National center for Disability services

201 I.V. Wntets Road

'

planning a large conference for the year 2000).

Albertson, NY 11507-1599 (516) 747-6323

National Organization on Disability (N.O.D.) has a list of resources such as agencies and publications which can assist you in your job search. Contact them at http://www.nod/ info.ntml#resources to view a copy of this list. a selected part of the list is included below for people who do not have Internet access.

Department of Labor Job Bank has resources to assist you in your job search. call (800) 3262577.

Resources for self-employment for people with

disabilities:

-

Urban Miyares, San Diego, CA (619) 586-1199

Rose Ann Herzog, Detroit, MI (313) 971-0277

Kay Shriner. Arkansas

(501) 575-6417

Nancy Maxson, Montana

(406) 243-2458

Job Accommodation Network (JAN)

Phone/TIY (BOO) 232-9675

V/TIY

(BOO) 526-7234

National Industries for the severely Handicapped 2235 cedar Lane
Vienna, VA 22182-5200 -
(703) 560-6800; TTY (703) 560-6512

Operation Job Match
2021 K. Street, NW, Suite 100 Washington, DC 20006 (202) 887-0136

Paralyz# Veterans of America

801 18th Stteet, N

-

Washington. DC 20006

(202)-872-1300

The Foundation on Employment &. Disability
3820 Del Amo Blvd., Suite 201 Torrence, CA 90503-

careers and the Disabled magazine
150 Motor Parkway, Suite 420

0

Hauppage. NY 11788-5145

(516) 273-0066

152




Housing

.11


Housing Resources




The Center for Housing Alternatives is a nonprofit organization founded in 1983 that provides technical assistance to other non-profit organizations to develop residential alternatives for persons with disabilities. The Center uses federal, state and local housing resources to enable nonprofit organizations in Georgia to:
make" use of housing funding resources that are available currently; and
develop small residential facilities to serve as alternatives to in~titutional or inappropriate settings.
Contact Information: PO Box 52003 Atlanta. GA 30355 Phone: (404) 237-9877; Fax: (404) 237-9878
Home Ownership For Persons with Disabilities The National Home of Your Own Alliance began a five year project in September of 1993 to promote home ownership for persons with disabilities. Its objective was to work with coalitions of housing, finance and disability organizations to develop pilot projects in a total of 23 states. Georgia Jointed the Alliance in 1995. The Center for Housing Alternatives in cooperation with the Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities, the Department of Community Affairs (preViously known asthe Georgia Housing and Finance Authority), The Statewide Independent Living Council and the Community Housing . Resource Center form the steering committee. Working with a coalition of-housing, finance and disability organizations, the Georgia Home Of Your Own Project (GA HOYO) targets people with severe disabilities for home ownership. Each site has an "Expertise Team" which disseminates information regarding the program and commits to assisting a set number of people each year to achieve home ownership. Over time. GA HOYO expects to have Expertise Teams located within reach of all individuals with disabilities in our state. Other activi-

ties include lender training and advocacy for expanded mortgage products. Local expertise teams have been established in five sites: Albany ARC, LARC, Inc., in Valdosta, Coastal Center for Developmental Services in savannah, STAR Choices in Macon, and Housing and Economic Partners, Inc. (HELP), in Athens.
In 1997, the GA HOYO, in conjunction with the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) applied for and received a HomeChoice Loan Program from Fannie Mae. Work is still proceeding on determining mortgage bank support of this program.
In the interim, the OwnHome Program Loan for Disabled Borrowers is available to assist individuals with disabilities to purchase their principal residence. These loans are used to reduce the principal amount of the first mortgage, as well as provide the required down payment and assist in the payment of closing costs. This program is available throughout the entire state even in areas where there is no HOYO expertise team. Contact either the HOYQ organization in your area, a HUD Certified Housing/Counseling Agency in your community, or similar programs as approved by the DCA for information on this program. Contact the Center for Housing Alternatives at (404) 2379877 or Department of Community Affairs at (404) 679-4940 for more information.
Borrowers must be creditworthy and demonstrate a willingness to pay debts in a timely manner. If the applicant is eligible for the Department of Community Affairs Home Buyer Program, the applicant must use Home Buyer Program financing. If the applicant is ineligible for the Home Buyer Program, the OwnHOME Loan may be subordinate to a first mortgage owned by another investor.
Program Description The OwnHOME Program Loan for Disabled
Borrowers in not a grant. It is a loan. The OwnHome Program Loan for Disabled

155

Borrowers must meet all requirements specific to

Uquid Assets Limitations. To be eligible for the

the Own HOME Program contained in the Department of Community Affairs Seller Guide except as

0 OwnHOME Loan for Disabled BOrrowers, appli-
cantS, alone or in combination with the adult

those guidelines are modified by this program

members of the household must not have liquid

description.

assets in excess of the OwnHome amount.

e The OwnHOME Loan for Disabled Borrowers

is a deferred payment second mortgage loan. No

The Georgia Department of Community Affairs,

payments are due on the OwnHOME Loan until

Home Buyer, Own Home, 60 Executive Park

the original borrower sells or transfers the prop-

South, NE, Atlanta, GA 30329-2231, (404) 679-

erty. refinances the first mortgage or if. during the first six years after Loan closing, he or she no

4840, (800) 359-4663, (BOO) 651-7954 roD.
www.dca.state.ga.us. These are two programs for

longer uses the property and their primary resi-

first-home buyers.

dence.

e Home Buyer Program offers low interest

eThe OwnHOME Loan for Disabled Borrowers

rates on, mortgages which can save you thousands

accrues interest at 0% per annum.

of dollars over the life of the loan which means

e The amount of the OwnHOME Loan for

lower monthly house payments. To qualify you

Disabled Borrowers must be not less than $1,000

must have an annual income that is less than

and no greater than $25,000.

$36,000 for a household of one or two persons

e The loan amount of the OwnHOME Loan for

(statewide) or $40,000 (in the Atlanta Area) or

Disabled Borrowers is equal to the minimum down $41.000 for a household of 3 or more persons

payment required by the terms of the first mort-

(statewide) or $46.000 (in the Atlanta Area).

gage plus the prepaid expenses plus the borrower Down payment amounts will vary. If you do not

paid closing costs plus any allowable principle

have enough cash for the down payment and

reduction minus the Borrower's Required Funds.

closing costs, you should ask your lender about

The allowable principle reduction is the amount of the Department of Community Affairs OwnHOME

additional down payment required to bring the debt-to-income rations into compliance with the

0 ' Program for down payment assistance (see de-
scription of this loan above). These loans may be

, requirements ofthe first mortgage.

used to purchase homes' with a sales price of less

than $95,000 for new construction (statewide) or

Eligible Buyers. The OwnHOME Loan for

- $101,000 (Atlanta Area) or for existing homes

Disabled Borrowers is available for disabled

that cost less than $74,000 (statewide) or $93,000

borrowers who are frrst-time home buyers, or

(Atlanta Area).

have not owned a home in ~e past 3 years,' or a

e- You must either be a first time buyer or have

dispaced homemaker, or a single parent, or if the

now owned your principle residence for the last

borrower owned a home during the past 3 years,

,three years or be located in a targeted area. You

but was forced to sell the home as a result of

must be creditworthy and have modest assets.

,becoming disabled.

You must use your home for your principal

residence and not for business or commercial

OwnHOME Loan Amount Limitations. The

purposes. There are additional eligibility criteria

maximum amount of the OwnHome Loan for

required to obtain a Home Buyer Loan. Please

Disabled Borrowers must be equal to or less than

consult your lender to prequalify.

the following amounts as determined by total

Household Annual Income:

Concrete Change

600 Dancing Fox Road

Income Limits

Maximum OwnHome Loan

Decatur, GA 30032 e-mail: Concretechange@mindspring.com

to $19,000

$25,000

Web: eleanors.home.mindspring.com/start.htm

$19,001 to $21,900 $21.901 to $24,000

$20,000 $15,000

Accessible Housing

Housing and Urban Development User P.O. Box 6091

0

$24.001 to $29,900

$10.000

Rockville. MD 20849

$29.901 to $41,000

$5,000

(800) 245-2691 or Contact your City Housing Agency or your local,

Community Development Agency.

156



Habitat for Humanity International is a nonprofit, Christian organization that attempts to solve the problem of inadequate shelter by forming partnerships between people in need and those with the willingness and resources to help. Habitat for Humanity relies heavily on volunteer labor and donated capital and materials. Habitat home owners are required to invest hundreds of hours of "sweat equity" in the planning and construction of their homes and then accept full responsibility for the cost through a no-interest mortgage to be repaid over a 15 to 25 year period. The payments go into a local "fund for Humanity" which generates more houses and more hope for future generations of homeowners. Because there is no profit or interest involved. owning a simple. decent home can become a reality for many families previously trapped in poverty housing.
Following is a listing of Established Georgia Affiliates for Habitat for Humanity as of February, 1999.
Americus-Sumter County HFH 732 Spring Street Americus, GA 31709-3462 Phone: (912) 928-9577
Athens Area HFH PO Box 1261 Athens, GA 30603-1261 Phone: (706) 208-1001) Fax: (706) 369-1210
Atlanta HFH 519 Memorial Drive SE Atlanta, GA 30312-2218 Phone: (404) 223-5180; Fax: (404) 223-5103
Augusta CSRA HFH , PO Box 15053
Augusta, GA 30919-1053 Phone: (706) 481-8681; Fax: (706) 481-8389
Bainbridge Decatur CO. HFH PO Box 1711 Bainbridge. GA 31718-1711
Barrow County HFH 1385 Harmony Grove Church Rd. Auburn, GA 30011-2702 Phone: (770) 277-7997
Blakely-Early County HFH PO Box 748 Blakely, GA 31723-0748

Bullock COunty. HFH PO Box 1253 Statesboro. GA 30459-1253 Phone: (912) 489-2076
Burke County HFH PO Box 1 Sardis. GA 30456-0001 Phone: (706) 437-1339
camden COunty HFH 1368 River Bend Dr. Saint Marys, GA 31558-3246 Phone: (912) 673-1266
Cartersville-Bartow Co. HFH PO Box'3392 Cartersville, GA 30120-1707 Phone: (770) 382-6293
Catoosa County HFH PO Box 490 Ringgold, GA 30736-0490 Phone: (706) 937-6600; Fax: (706) 937-3950
Chattoga County HFH PO Box 257 Menlo. GA 30731-0257 Phone: (706) 857-2057; Fax: (706) 857-1714
Cherokee County HFH PO Box 1503 Woodstock. GA 30188-1353 Phone: (770) 917-0660
Coastal Empire HFH PO Box 9412 Savannah. GA 31412-9412 Phone: (912) 234-6112; Fax: (912) 234-0313
Cobb County HFH 1720 Cumberland Point Drive, Suite 17 Marietta, GA 30067-9204 Phone: (770) 951-9499; Fax: (770) 951-9699
Colquitt County HFH PO Box 190 Moultrie. GA 31776-0190 Phone: (912)890-8322
Columbus Area HFH ' PO Box 1193 Columbus. GA 31902-1193 . Phone: (706) 221-0807; FaX: (706) 221-1232
Conyers-Rockdale HFH PO Box 183 Conyers, GA 30012-0183 Phone: (770) 922-1944
Crisp Area HFH PO Box 1191 Cordele. GA 31010-i 191 Phone: (912) 271-8000; Fax: (912) 273-1004

157

DaltonlWhitfield HFH PO Box 2477 Dalton. Ga 30722-2477 Phone: (706) 272-3336

.Dekalb HFH PO Box 49144 Atlanta. GA 30359-1144 Phone: (404) 534-9911; Fax:(404) 534-9922

Dodge County HFH 102 9th Ave. SW Eastman. GA 31023-1103 Phone: (912) 374-4841

Dooly County HFH PO Box 404 Vienna. GA 31092-0404 Phone: (912) 268-8061 )

Douglas County HFH

PO Box 2211

.

Douglasville. GA 30133-2211

Phone: (770) 920-0583

Dublin-Laurens County MPH PO Box 8227 Dublin. GA 31040-8227 Phone: (912) 275-1818

Effingham County HFH PO Box 578 Springfield. GA 31329-0578 Phone: (912) 826-6433; Fax: (912) 965-3599

Flint River MPH 1139 Broad Ave. Albany, GA 31707-4339 Phone: (912) 446-8199; Fax: (912) 446-8196

Forsyth County HFH PO Box 473 Cumming. GA 30028-0473 Phone: (770) 887-0929

Glynn County HFH PO Box 296 Brunswick. GA 31521-0296 Phone: '(912) 265-7455; Fax: (912) 265-4522
)
Greene County HFH PO Box 321 Greensboro. GA 30642-0321 Phone: (706) 453-1001

Griffin Area HPH PO Box 289 Griffin. GA 30224-0008 Phone: (770) 567-4778

Gwinnett County HFH 1362 Pine Circle Stone Mountain, GA 30087-3105 Phone: (770) 931-8080; Fax: (770) 931-8080

HaD County HFH PO Box 1514 GainesviDe. GA 30503-1514 Fax: (770) 534-0444

Harris County HFH POBox 1522 Pine Mountain. Ga 31822-1522 Phone: (706) 663-2310

Hart County HFH PO Box 146 Hartwell. GA 30643-0146

Houston Counly HFH PO Box 7506 Warner Robins. GA 31095-7506 Phone: (912)328-3388

Jackson Counly HFH PO Box 834 Commerce, GA 30529-0016 Phone: (706)335-7823
,.
Lamar County HFH Box 114 Barnesville. GA 30204-0114

Lumpkin County HFH 154 Gateview Drive Dahlonega. GA 30533-4120

Macon Area HFH 2060 Shorting Drive Macon, GA 31211-2348 . Phone: (912) 741-3937; Fax: (912) 741-9686

Macon County HFH PO Box 636 Montezuma, GA 31063-0636

Madison County HFH PO Box 693 Comer. GA 30629-0693 Phone: (706) 783-3460

Magnolia Midlands HFH 113 Cherokee Ct Fitzgerald, GA 31150-8150

Meriwether County HFH PO Box 1209 Greenville, GA 30222-1081 Phone: (706) 663-2346; Fax: (706)612-1768

MiIledgevillelBaldwin Co. HFH PO Box 605 Milledgeville, GA 31061-0605 . Phone: (912)453-9611

Monroe County MPH

PO Box 613

"-

Forsyth, GA 31029-0673

158

o
..... "
'0
o



Morgan County HFH PO Box 207 lI.\adison, GA 30650-0207 Phone: (706) 342-1886; Fax: (706) 3420011 .
Newnan-Coweta HFH PO Box 2607 Newnan, GA 30264-2541

Newton County HFH I 169 Clark Street Covington, GA 30014-2314

North Central Georgia HFH PO Box 1673 Ellijay. Ga 30540-0020 Phone: (706) 6365335

North Fulton, Inc., HFH 814 Mimosa Blvd., Bldg. C Roswell, Ga 30075-4410 Phone: (770) 587-9679; Fax: (990) 587-2150

Northeast Georgia HFH PO Box 982 Clarkesville, GA 30523-0017 Phone: (706) 754-5313; Fax: (706) 754-1293 .

'.

Peach Area HFH PO Box 101 Forr Valley, GA 31030-0101 Phone: (912) 825-2704
Putnam HFH PO Box 4056 Eatonton. GA 31024-4056 Phone: (706) 485-0166

Rabun County HFH PO Box 1394 Clayton. GA 30525-1394

Rome and floyd County HFH PO Box 127 Rome, GA 30162-0127 Phone: (7Q6) 291-2164

Saint Johns Parish HFH PO Box 2055 Hinesville, GA 313107055 Phone: (912) 877-4121

Satilla HFH PO Box 2447 Waycross, GA 3 t 502-244 7



South Fulton County HFH PO Box 82223 Hapeville, GA 30354-0223 Phone: (404) 761-4200

Southern Crescent HFH 142 S. Main Street Jonesboro. GA 30236-3566 Phone: (770) 477-9973; Fax: (770)477-9973

Stephens County HFH PO Box 1711 Toccoa. GA 30577~1432

Thlbot County HFH RRI. Box 93-A Shiloh, GA 31826-9725

ThomastonlUpson Co. HFH PO Box 443 Thomaston, GA 30286-0006

Thomasville-Thomas Co. HFH

PO Box 1479

'

Thomasville. GA 31799-1479

Phone: (912) 226-2565

Thomson-McDuffie County HFH PO Box 1701 Thomson, GA 30824-5701

TIft County HFH PO Box A TIfton, GA 31793-0377 Fax: (912) 382-5017
TownslUnion Counties HFH PO Box 270 Young Harris, GA 30582-0270 Phone: (706) 379-2484
ltoup County HFH PO Box 327 .Lagrange. GA 30241-0006
Valdosta-Lowndes CO. HFH PO Box 1281 . Valdosta. GA 31603-1281 Phone: (912) 245-1330; Fax: (912) 245-1330
Vidalia Area HFH PO Box 809 Vidalia. GA 304 75-0809 Phone: (912) 537-7948
Walker County HFH PO Box 309 Rock Spring. GA 30739-0309
Walton County HFH P.O. Box 603 Monroe, GA 30655-0603 Phone: (770) 267-1958; Fax: (770) 267-9025
West Georgia HFH PO Box 85 carrollton. GA 3117-0085 Phone: (770) 838-0399

159

Independent Living

o

Statewide Independent Living Council of Georgia, Inc. (SILe)
A non-profit organization, the SILC of Georgia has as its mission to ensure equal participation of people with disabilities in their communities. Granting funds to agencies that serve Georgians with disabilities, and advocating for statewide community-based support services in programs run by and for people with disabilities are two of the SILC's most effective strategies for achieving their mission. A key philosophy of the SILC is that disabilities exist because barriers exist and the SILC is committed to ensuring that homes and public places are accessible to people with all types of disabilities. SILC also publishes the results of public opinion polls and disseminates a variety of information on issues relevant to the lives of people with disabilities.
You can contact the state office of the SILC at: Statewide Independent Uving Council of Georgia, Inc. 3125 Presidential Parkway, Suite 200 Atlanta, GA 30340 Phone: (770) 452-9601 Fax: (770) 452-9928 1TY: (770) 452-7087
or make a connection with a SILC Independent Living Center near you for information, assistance or 'to talk to a support specialist or a peer advisor.
'Local Contacts include:
Access Center for Independent Living (AClL) PO Box 908484 I Gainesville, GA 30501 Contact: Stephanie Wells, Executive Director Phone: (770) 534-6656 Volunteers needed to assist with home modification/repair projects

Bainbridge Advocacy Individual Networks, Inc~ (BAIN) 521 West Broughton Street Bainbridge, GA 31717 Contact: Virginia Harris, Executive Director Malissa Thompson. Volunteer Coordinator Phone: (912)246-0150 Volunteers needed to assist with fund raising projects

Brunswick Citizens for Disability Empowerment, Inc. elo Charles VanDiviere 413 N. Harbour Oaks, Dr. S1. Simons Island, GA 31522 Phone: (912) 638-884; Fax: (912) 634-0919 Volunteers needed to assist with home modification/repair projects .

Columbus Mayor's Committee on Employment

of People with Disabilities

.

3811 COnrad Drive

COlumbus, GA 31901

Contact: Gail McKoon

Phone: (706) 653-4492

Volunteers needed to assist with home

modification/repair projects

o

disAbility LINK

755 Commerce Dr., Suite 415

Decatur, GA 30030

.

Contact: Tony Boatright, Executive Director

Phone: (404) 687-8890

Volunteers needed to assist with fund raising projects

Disability Connections, Inc. (DC)

170 College Street

Macon, .GA 31201

Contact: Jerilyn Leverett, Executive I)irector

Phone: (912) 743-9801

Volunteers needed for home modification/repair projects

Friends of Disabled Adults and Children (FODAC)

4900 Lewis Road

Stone Mountain, GA 30083

Contact: John Swett, Home Modification Project Man-

ager'

Phone: (770) 491-9014/ (70) 822-1059 Volunteers needed to assist with home

0

modifications

160



Living Independent for Everyone, Inc. (LIFE)

17-1 9 East navis Street

Savannah. GA 31406

Contact: Polly Johansen. Volunteer Coordinator

Pone: (912) 920-2314

..

Volunteers in any capacity are welcome especially for

home modifications/repairs

Southwest Georgia Easter seals
1906 Palmyra Road Albany. GA 31707 Contact: Laura Royal Phone: (912)439-7061 Volunteers in any capacity are welcome. especially for home modifications/repairs

Ttl-State Resources and Advocacy Corporation, Inc.
(TRAC) 5800 Building 5708 Uptain Road. Suite 350 Chattanooga, TN 373333411 Contact: Susan. Gilley
GA rural Outreach Coordinator Phone: (800)868-8724 Volunteers needed to assist with home modification projects

watton Options for Independent Living, Inc.
(WaHL) PO Box 519 Augusta, GA 30903 Contact: Karen Howard, Executive Director Phone: (706) 724-6262 Volunteers needed to assist with minor home repairs


161

NOTES
o
o
o
162




.Resources

II


Cultural Diversity and Disability




Following are some people to call if you have
que~tions or need consultation about issues of diversity and disability.
Atlanta Regional Commission Disability Outreach Program Ms. Catherine Ivey (404) 364-2576
Albany State College Project to identify persons of color with disabilities in Southwest Georgia: Ms. Teresa Meriwether Orok 504 College Drive Albany,_GA 31705 (912) 430-4760
Columbus College Cultural Competence Plan Dr. Joseph D. Georgia. Ph.D. Columbus College 4225 University Avenue Columbus, GA 31907 (706) 568-2222
Multicultural Coalition on Disability and Diversity Kate Gainer 55 MapleSt., # 108 Atlallla, GA 30314-4760 (404) 58! -0626
Babies Can't Wait Cultural Diversity Prqject Sarita ReJJy, Ph.D. InSlilUle on Human Developmem and Disability
(IHDD) The University of Georgia 85"0 College Statibn Road Athens, Georgia 30602-.4806 (706) 542-6085


165

Deaf/Hard of Hearing Network
o
.r

Specialized Services for Georgians
Specialized Services for Georgians is a special interest group comprised of the contracted agencies of the Department of Human Resources' Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) who provide specialized services for Georgia's hearing loss community. This group is dedicated to providing equal access to all Georgians with hearing loss by offering services such as job training, supported employment, guidance and counseling, job accommodation/modification, training seminars on disability and ADA, advocacy and intervention, evaluation and assessment, postsecondary education, interpreting services, residential programs, and technology training. Ask for information from these five providers or the DRS.

Georgia Council for the Hearing Impaired, Inc.

4151 Memorial Dr., Suite 103-8

.

Decatur, GA 30032

(404) 292-5312 VrITY; (404) 299-3642

(800) 541 -071 0

Web: www.gachLnet

GACHI is a statewide system of services to the deaf.

hard of hearing. and late deafened adults, and other

individuals or ,groups with whom they interact. GACHl's

aim is to provide services, advocacy, and intervention to

enhance the quality of life for its consumers.

Georgia Interpreting Services Network 44 Broad Street, Suite 503 Atlanta, GA 30303 (404) 521-9100; (404) 521-9121 Fax (800) 228-4992 Web: httpll:georgiaenterprises.com
GISN is a statewide network of qualified, professional interpreters serving all government and private entities to ensure that Georgians have equal access. GISN offers 24 hour, 7-day per week services.

ties by ensuring the development and effective utilization of professional interpreters.

Georgia Sensory Rehabilitation Center 2801 R.N. Martin Street East Point, GA 30344 (404) 669-9007 Voice; (404) 669-0150 TTY (404) 669-0677 Fax Web: www.C-S-D.org
, GSRC's provides statewide services that will enable customers to obtain and maintain employment. Independent living services and residences are provided to support this goal. .

Human Development Services, Inc.

Cave Spring Center

7 Georgia Ave., PO Box 385

Cave Spring, GA 30124

(706) 777-1770; (770) 748-7406 Atlanta (706) 777-1775 TTY

0

(706) 777-1776 Fax

e-mail: HDS@hdscavespring.com

HDS is a statewide vocatiomil rehabilitation center

serving individuals who are over age 16 and have a

disability that hinders employment. HDS staff are

proficient in American Sign Language and serve

individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing as well as

those with other disabilities.

.

Georgia Department of Human Resources, Division of Rehabilitation Services Department of Rehabilitation Services 2 Peachtree St. NW, 35th' Floor Atlanta, GA 30303 (404) 657-3000 V/lTY
DRS prepares people with disabilities who are motivated toward employment to reach their goals. There are 51 DRS Mhubs" statewide. eadl with a local team that prOVides services.

Georgia Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf 4151 Memorial Dr.. Suite 111-B Decatur. GA 30032 (404) 299-9500 V/lTY; (404) 299-0303 (800) 969-DEAF
GRID bridges, the gap in communication between deaf, hard of hearing. deaf-blind and hearing communi-

o

, .166

Information and Referral


Albany Helpline P.O. Box 7 Albany. GA 31702 912-888-6126
Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. -- 5:00 p.m., a service of the United Way of South West Georgia..



Altamaha-Georgia SOuthern Regional Development Center - Area Agency on Aging P.O. Drawer 459 Baxley. GA 31513 912-367-3648 Administration; Fax 912-367-3640 Appling county - 912-367-6127 Bulloch county - 912-489-1604 candler county - 912~685-2580 Evans county - 912-739-1705 Jeff Davis county - 912-3753603 Thttnal county --'912-~~7-603i Toombs county .:. 912::537-0453 Wayne county - 912.,.427-7798
Athens Regional"Medical Center - AlcohoUDrug Information Line 1199 Prince Avenue Athens, GA 30606 706-354-3660
A 24 hour information line.

Atlanta Regional Commission. Aging Connection -

Area Agency on Aging

_, .. '.

200 Northaeek, Suite 300, 3715 Northside Parkway

Atlanta, GA 30327

.

404-364-2527 Administration; 404-364-2626 I&R.

Fax 404-364-4205

Cherokee county - 770-345-5312 .

Clayton county - 770-603-4050

Cobb county - 770-528-5364

DeKalb county - 404371-9901..

Douglas county - 770-489-3100

Fayette county - 710-461-0813

Fulton county - 404-730-6000

Gwinnett county - 770-822-8850

Henry county - 770-954-2033

Rockdale county - 770-922-4633



Augusta United Way Information & Referral Line 630 Ellis Street Augusta, GA 30901 (PO Box 1724,30903) 706-826-6269 Monday - Friday. 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., a service of the United Way of the central Savannah River Area.

Cancer Care 275 seventh Avenue New York. NY 10001 212-221-2400 Services; 212-221-3300 Administration 800-813-4673 Counseling; Fax 212-719-0263 www.cancercare.org
Provides help to people with cancer, their loved ones, ~regivers, and professionals by providing support services, education. cancer related information (including health care, financial assistance. transportation. and other resources), and support groups (in person. telephone, and on-line).
Central Savannah River Regional Development Center - Area Agency on Aging 2123 Wrightsboro Road Augusta. GA 30904-0800 (PO Box 2800,30914-2800) 706-737-1823 Administration; 888-922-4464 I&R Fax 706-737-1459
Serves Wilkes county.
Chattaoochee-FlintRegwnal Development CenterArea Agency on Aging P.O. Box 1600 Franklin. GA 30217 706-675-6721 Administration; 706-884-2651 I&R Fax 706-675-0448
Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect P.O. Box 1182 Washington, DC 20013:-1182 800-394-3366
A service of the National center on Child Abuse and. Neglect, the clearinghouse organizes .and supplies information from its extensive library and database on all aspects of child abuse, including a wealth of materials related to children with disabilities.
;Coastal Georgia Regional Development Center - Area Agency on Aging P.O. Box 1917 Brunswick, GA 31521 912-264-7363 ext. 228 Administration 912-262-2313 I&R; 800-223-1852 I&R . Fax 912-262-2313
Columbus Helpline P.O. Box 1157 Columbus, GA 31909 706-571-2265 Monday - Friday. 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

167

Community Connection of Northeast Georgia . 850 College Station Road, Suite G-41 Athens, GA 30605--2718
706-353-1313 ; 706-353-2824 Administration 800-924-5085; Fax 706-353-1375 e-mail: connection@athens.net Web: www.uap.uga.edu/ccdb
An Information Helpline offering callers free and confidential information on appropriate community resources to meet basic human :needs including food, clothing. shelter, emergency financial assistance, health care, as well as housing, legal, mental health, and transportation assistance. Monday-Friday, 8130 aim. 5:00 p.m. SelVices include: Aging COnnection; Employment Conneclion, Disabilities COnnection, Legal connection; Volunteer Connection.Publications include: Civic Directory. Human SerVice,Direetory. Disabilities Directory, Media Directory, Summer camp Directory, Medicaid 'Directory; andTheCannettoi't aelmonthly' non pmfit,-lhuQjan 'service newsletter.

$~,1~rnIat_R 6\:'Referral service Hotline

1"'~~3-0685

-

.

800-516-4627 pin#63
0 offers information about services and information
related to area events and services including HIV I

AIDS support groups and selVice organizations. Offers

telephone counseling between 4:30 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.,

Monday through Friday. All referrals are confidential.

Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and 'n'ansgender Gender Information Line P.O. Box 7864 Athens, Ga 30604 706-546-4611
Provides information about community aud University of Georgia gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and related organizations. Also provides information about organized social gatherings, counselors, support groups, youth supports, and gay friendly churches. .

CommunirylnfoUne:

436 Broacd StT-eeti SUiteL~A

Rome, GA 30161

706-232-4636

e-mail:;infoline@roman:Q~. .

Monday - Friday, 9:@:~m..4:00p:.,n...Serves Rome.

and floyd counties.

.

Contact Helpline P.O. Box 1616 GainesvHle, GA 30503 770-534-0617 Helpline; 770-536-7145 Administration
8001J.81.~5944
24 hour Crisis Intervemion, sl#icideptiNeafiOit. Information & Referral serving North Georgia} Also'has
Contact Reassurance for the elderly ani:! Kit:J.,1(are,a-
reassurailce one:fpr latChk-e;yi children; 'Serves counties east and north of Atlanta (northeast Georgia).

Eldercare Locator
800-677-1116
A nationwide, directory assistaneeserVlCe'deSigned to help older persons and caregivers locate;}()(;al support .resources Jor agirtgAmeficans:rcan.ideritify serviCes includingmeals;homecar.e,transportatron; bousing alter,natiVes; home t:epairs,andrecreation,

First Call for Help - savannah' P.O. Box 9119 Savannah, GA 3141~. 912-232-3383
Monday - Friday. 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.. after hours service is available; an agency of the United.Way,of Coastal Empire.

Fort Gordon Army Community SelViceBuilding 33720 Fort Gordon, GA 30905 706-791-3579
7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Georgia Helpline

2762 Watson Boulevard

Warner'Robins, GA'31093

912-953-5675; 800-338-6745 outside Georgia .

Formerly Governor's Helpline, a crisis intervention

service for the state ofGeorgia. Operates on a 24-hour

day, staffed by trained volunteers, providing

information on domestic violence. compulsive

gambling, suicide, alcohol and other drugs, some
0 assistance with rent and utilities, and HIVI AIDS. All
calls are anonymous and confidential. Services are free

of charge:

.

.

Georgia Mountains Regional Development center , Area Agency on Aging
P.O. Box 1720 Gainesville. GA 30503 800-845-\5465 ; Fax 770-531-5696 Banks county - 706-677-3275 . Dawson' couJity.',,;,106265-2284 Forsyth county - 170-781-2178 Fra'n1din'county" - 706-356-&778 Habersham county - 706-776-7170
HaD County -'71~536':'4885 Hart county - 706-376-3975
Lumpkin county - 706-864':'2358 Rabun county - 706-782-3853 Stephens county - 706-886-4740' Towns county - 706-896-3138 Union county - 706-745-4532 White county - 706-865-4097

Gwinnett Help Line - The Gwinnett COalition for

Health and Human services

240 Oak Street

Lawrenceville, GA 30245

770-995-3339

A non-profit organization dedicated to addressing

health and human Service needs in Gwinnett. The primary service prOVided by the Coalition is the

0

Gwinnett Helpline, which database includes over 1,000

health andhuma'n'service agencies in Gwinnett and

Metro Atlanta. Monday - Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

168



Habersham County United Way. Inc. P.O. Box 366 Cornelia, GA 30531 706-778-0620 ; Fax 706-776-1416
Monday - Friday 9:00 a.m. -. 5:00 p.m. Serves Habersham county.

Lower Chattahoochee Regional Development center Area Agency on Aging 1428 Second Avenue Columbus, GA 31902; (PO Box 1908,31902) 706-649-7468 Administration; 706-649-7468 I&R Fax 706-649-1218

Health'lnsurance Counseling Assistance and

Referral for the Elderly - H.I.C.A.R.E.

800-669-8387; M-F 10:oo-12:oop.m.; 2:oop.m.-4p.m.

HICARE is a volunteer-based program that assists

seniors with Medicare, Medicaid, Medicare

supplemental insurance (Medigap) , long-term care .

insurance, and other health insurance issuses. The

program provides objective information to help seniors

make informed choices concerning their health

insurance. Health insurance counseling for seniors

provides: consumer information about health

insurance, help in understanding senior rights as a

Medicare beneficiary or health insurance policyholder.

help comparing and evaluating health insurance

policies and plans, information on long-term care .

financing options and long-term care insurance, help

sorting through medical bills and assistance ftIing

medical claims, legal assistance with complicated

Medicare problems, referrals to other agencies such as

the Division of Family and Children Services and Social

. Security, community eduCation on health insurance

issuses and counseling in person and limited telephone

counseling.

.

Northeast Georgia

706/549-4850; Barrow, Clarke, Elbert, Greene,

Jackson, Madison, Morgan, Oconee, Oglethorpe,

and Walton counties.

Central Savannah River

706/826-4480; Thliafero and Wilkes counties.

Chattahoochee flint/Mcintosh ltail

706/369-7147; Newton county.

Georgia Mountains

706/538-2650; Franklin county.

Heart of Georgia Council on Aging - Area Agency on Aging 118 Second Avenue McRae,GA 31055;(P.O. Box 503,31055) 912-868-5916; Fax 912-868-6220 Bleckley county - 912-934-3223 Dodge county - 912-374-7255 Laurens county - 912-277-5025 Montgomery county - 912-583-4895 Pulaski county - 912-783-1074 Telfair county - 912-868-5938 lteutlen county - 912-529-6300 Wheeler county - 912-568-7811 Wilcox county - 912-365-2352

Information and Referral Resource Network web site only; www.ir-net.com
Lists agencies throughout the United States that prOVide human services to the general public. Includes agencies that prOVide information and referral, social service, case management, health care, counseling. mental health, child care, domestic violence, substance abuse. and welfare programs.

, Marine Corps Albany Information &. Referral Program Family Service Center, Building 3600 Albany, GA 31704 Code, 170,814 Radford Boulevard 912-439-5276; 912-439-5276 TOD Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Metropolitan Atlanta Councn on Alcohol &. Drugs 2045 Peachtree Road, NE, Suite 605 Atlanta, Ga 30309-1401 404-351-1800; Fax 404-351-2840 e-mail:WWW@macad.org Web: www.macad.org
Operates a free. state-wide referral service to substance abuse treatment centers and programs. Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m.-5:oo p.m. Also offers a Resource Center Library with information on substance abuse and a Video Rental Library. The library is available for public use Monday - Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Appointments are requested. Offers a prevention and treatment directory, prevention and early intervention programs, training courses and workshops for educators, community agendes and addiction counselors and heads the Georgia Alcohol Policy Project to reduce underage drinking.
Middle Flint Regional Development center - Area Agency on Aging 228 West Lamar Street Americus, GA 31709 912-928-4120: ~361-070916Ui Fax 912-928-0117
Middle Georgia Regional Development center - Area Agency on Aging 175-C Emery Highway Macon, GA 31709 912-751-6160; 912-751-33OOI6Ui 800-354-1561 I&R; Fax 912-751-6517
National center for Youth with Disabilities University of Minnesota Box 721,420 Ddaware St S.E. Minneapolis, MN 55455 800-333-62.98
NCYD publishes a newsletter and annotated bibliography relevant to youth with disabOities. They also have a directory of agendes and organizations and conduct database searches for a small fee.
North Georgia Regional Development center - Area Agency on Aging 503 West Waugh Street Dalton, GA 30720 706-272-2300 AdministrationITIY 706-272-2300 16Ui: Fax 706-272-2253

169
)

Project Safe P.O. Box 7532 Athens. GA 30604 706-543-3331 24-Hour Crisis Line 706-549-0922 Administration; Fax 706-354-6161
Provides support and assistance to survivors of domestic violence. induding physical or mental abuse. Offers a 24 hour emergency shelter, offers advocacy services, a peer support group, children's program. relocation assistance, and follow-up support The shelter has no residency requirements and requests no police reports or legal documentation of women. Also offers a women's support group. children's support group, free chiIdcare, volunteer training, school programs, and professional in-services. serves Barrow, Clarke, Elbert. Greene, Jackson, Madison. Morgan, Oconee, Oglethorpe, and Walton counties.

Web: www.unitedwayad.org/21 I_Databa~ Free telephone help line operating 24 hours a day.
Cellular telephone customers must dial (404) or (770) 614-1000. The web site listing links to the Help Book database to search for services by need, city, zip code, and agency name. An agency of the United Way of Metropolitan Atlanta. Inc. serves Butts. Cherokee. Clayton, Col?b, DeKalb. Douglas, Fayette, Fulton. Gwinnett, Henry, Paulding and Rockdale counties.

o

South Georgia Council on Aging - Area Agency on Aging 2906 - B North Patterson Street Valdosta, GA 31602 912-241-9108 AdministrationlI&R; Fax 912-241-9317

Southeast Georgia Regional Development center Area Agency on Aging 3395 Harris Road Waycross, GA 31503-3395 912-285-6097 AdministrationlI&R; Fax 912-285-6126

Sowega Council on Aging, Inc.-Area Agency on Aging 309 Pine Avenue Albany, GA 31701 912-432-1124 AdministrationlI&R: 800-282-66121&R ' Fax 912-438-0408
u.s. Air Force Reserve family Readiness
Dobbins Air Force Base, 94 AWfFS 1492 First Street Dobbins ARB, GA 30069--5010 404-421-5004; Fax 404-421-5056 Monday - Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

o

U.S. Air force Reserve family Readiness Robins Air Force Base OLEw 94 MSSQ/MSM 150 Perry Street Robins AFB, GA 31098 912-926-1084 Fax 912-926-1083 Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

United States General services Administration federal Information center 800:'688-9889; 800-326-2996 lTV
Answers questions about the Federat Government or directs caDers to appropriate government agency.

United Way 211 P.O. Box 2692 Atlanta. GA 30301-4601 404-614-1000 Help Line; 404-614-104811Y 404-614-1026 Administration 211- for metro Atlanta residents only Fax 404-614-1049
170

o

Libraries and Research Centers




Albany 'nllkirig Book center

Dougherty COunty Public Library

300 Pine Avenue

Albany, GA 31701

Phone: (912) 430-1920 .

Fax: (912) 430-4020

.

Offers discs, cassettes, reference materials on

blindness and other disabilities, large print

photocopiers, summer reading programs,

cassette books and more.

Athens Regional Library Tcllking Book center 2025 Baxter Street Athens, GA 30606 Phone: (706) 613-3655 Fax: (706) 369-0297
Offers discs, cassettes, large print books, reference materials on blindness, dosed-circuit Tv, magnifiers, braille writer, summer reading pr9gram. cassette books and magazines, computer reading devices and more.

AUguta-Richmond County Public Library 425 9th Street Augusta. GA 30901 Phone: (706) 821-2625 Fax: (706) 724-5403 Email: gswint@cfra.net cassettes, discs, braille writer, films, large print books. summer reading program, magnifiers and reference materials on blindness and other disabilities.

Bainbridge Subregional Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped Shotwell and Monroe Streets Bainbridge, GA 3171 7 Phone: (912) 248-2680 (800) 795-2680 Fax: (912) 248-2670 Email: l.reeves@mail.decator.public.lib.ga.us
Offers discs. cassettes. large print books, summer reading programs. dosed-circuit 'IV, magnifiers and more.

CEL Regional Library 2002 Bull Street Savannah, GA 31401 Phone: (912) 234-5127
(BOO) 342-4455
Fax: (912) 248-2670 Email: l.reeveS@mail.decator.public.lib.ga.us

Braille writer, magnifiers, large-print photocopiers,
closed circuit Tv. cassette books and magazines.
children's books on cassette, home visits and reference materials on blindness and other disabilities.
Chestatee Regional Library 127 North Main Street Gainesville, GA 30505 Phone: (770) 535-5738 Fax: (770) 532-4305 http://www.168.31.168.1 00
Braille writer, closed circuit 'IV. summer reading program, magnifiers, large-print photocopier, cassette books and magazines, children's broks on cassettes, home visits and reference materiaL ...n blindness and other disabilities.
Georgia Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped 1150 Murphy Ave. SW Atlanta, GA 30310 Phone: (404) 756-4619 Fax: (561) 756-4618
cassettes, braille, films, discs, braille writer, closed-circuit Tv. large-print photocopier, cassette books and magazines.
Lafayette Subregional Library for the Blind and Physically Disabled 305 S. Duke Street laFayette, GA 30728 " Phone: (7OO) 638-2992; (888) 506-0509 Email: charles@WWW.walker.public.liv.g~.us
Closed-circuit 'IV, summer reading program, magnifiers, large-print photocopier. cassette books and magazines, children's books on cassette, home visits and reference materials on blindness and other disabilities.
Macon Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped Washington Memorial Ave. Macon, GA 31201 Phone: (912) 744-0877 Fax: (912) 742-3161
Closed circuit 'IV, braiUewriter, magnifiers, summer reading program, large-print photocopier, cassette books and magazines, children's books on cassette, home visits and reference materials on blindness and other disabilities.

171

Sara Hightower Regional Library 205 Riverside Pkwy. Rome, GA 330161 Phone: (206) 236-4618
Closed circuit TV, braille writer, large-print photocopier. cassette books and magazines, children's books on cassette, horne visits and reference materials on blindness and other disabilities.

. South Georgia Regional Library

300 Woodrow Wilson Dr.

Valdosta, GA 31602

Phone: (912,) 333-5210

Fax; (912) 245-6483

e~mail: sbernste@surfsouth.com

Closed circuit TV, summer reading programs, braille

writer, magnifiers, a large print photocopier, cassette

books and magazines, children's books on cassette,'

horne visits and reference materials on blindness and

other disabilities.

.

Subregional Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped 1120 Bradley Drive Columbus, GA 31906 Phone: (706) 649-0780; (800) 652-0782 Fax: (706) 649-1914
Braille writer, magnifiers, summer reading programs, large print photocopier, cassette books and magazines, children's books on cassette and reference materials on blindness and other disabilities.

o o

o
172





- - - - -- -
,

.SOurces of Free
and Reduced-cost care
in Georgia




I

,


INDEX
Sources of Free and Reduced-Cost Care in Georgia

Overview

177

Which hospitals in Georgia are legally

obligated to provide emergency care?

177

, What hospitals are obligated to provide free

and reduced-cost inpatient and outpatient care?

179

Where can someone get free or reduced-cost

physician and other outpatient care?

180



What services do public health departments provide?

180

What services do community and migrant health

centers provide?

181

What special programs exist for pregnant women?

:

181

Where can someone get mental health, mental

retardation, and substance abuse treatment?

182

What kind of mental health, mental retardation and

substance abuse treatment is available in Georgia?

183

What special programs help with the cost of

HIV treatment?

184

What medical care does the crime victim's

assistance program cover? ;

184

Where can one get family planning services?

~.184

What programs help with the cost of prescription drugs?

185

Additional Sources

188


175

Sources of Free and Reduced-Cost
Care in Georgia*



Overview Most health care professionals and institutions
provide some free and reduced cost care to people who cannot pay. This chapter surveys the legal obligations placed on hospitals and other institutions to deliver free and reduced cost health care. Some of the programs outlined in this chapter are entitlement programs. Anyone meeting the eligibility criteria must be provided services. Other programs are required to offer care only to the extent of available funding.
Persons refused free or reduced cost care under any of these programs should complain. In some cases, a private right of action exists for individuals unlawfully refused care, allowing them to sue to enforce their rights. For other services, a formal administrative complaint procedure is available.
Which hospitals in Georgia are legally obligated to provide emergency care?
Both federal and state laws obligate hospitals to provide emergency care to those in need. The federal Emergency Medical Treatment and Liability Act (EMTALA) 1 applies to hospitals with emergency rooms that accept Medicare funding, which includes almost every hospital in the country. The federal Hill Burton Act2 covers hospitals that receive federal HilI Burton construction or modernization money. The Georgia Hospital care for Pregnant Women Act3 applies to every general hospital in Georgia.
Emergency Medical Treatment and Liability Act (EMTALA). Congress passed EMTALA because of concern about hospitals "dumping" poor patients. The law obligates all hospitals with emergency rooms that participate in Medicare to provide emergency services to all those who come to the hospital. Patients may not be denied care or transferred to public hospitals because of their

inability to pay for care. 4 EMTALA requires that hospitals provide an
appropriate medical screening to anyone who comes to the hospital, to determine if they have a medical emergency or are in active labor.s An emergency medical condition is one manifested by acute symptoms, including severe pain, and of sufficient severity that the absence of immediate medical attention reasonably can be expected to seriously jeopardize the patient's health or bodily functions, or cause a serious dysfunction of a body part or organ. 6 Active labor is a labor in which delivery is imminent, and there is inadequate time to safely transfer the woman prior to delivery, ora transfer poses a threat to the health and safety of the mother or unborn child. 7
If the EMTALA-required screening determines that a person has an emergency condition or is. in active labor, the hospital must provide treatment to stabilize the condition or deliver the baby.8 Stabilizing.-treatment is care necessary to assure, within reasonable medical probability, that no material deterioration of the condition is likely to occur if the individual is transferred or discharged from the hospital. 9
The patient may.be transferred to another hospital before being stabilized if a doctor certifies in writing that the benefits of the transfer outweigh any risks. to If a patient is transferred to another hospital before being stabilized, the hospital must:
eget the other hospital to agree tO,admit the patient,
e send the patient'S medical records with him or her, and
e arrange appropriate medical transportation and medical help to make the trip safely. I I
These protections do not have to be provided if a transfer is made pursuant to the patient's written request after being informed of the hospital's obligation to provide emergency treatment and the -risks of transfer. 12

Watson, Sidney D., 1999. A Georgia AdVocates Guide to Health care, funded by Health Law section of the State Bar of Georgia and

Mercer University Law S c h o o l . .

.

177

Patients who are not screened for a medical emergency or who are denied stabilizing treatment have a private right of action against the hospital, but not the doctor, for damages and injunctive relief. 13 Under some circumstances, the patient may also have a malpractice action against the physician and the hospital.
An administrative complaint may also be filed with'the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 'Survey and Certification Operations Branch, DHSQ - HCFA, Room 601, 101 Marietta St., Atlanta, GA 30323, (404) 331-2229. The federal government is authorized to pursue administrative enforcement proceedings against the hospital and physician for cash penalties and, in the most serious Cases, termination of Medicare payments. 14
EMTALA does not pay for the emergency care provided. The patient remains obligated for the cost of care. However, EMTALA's penalties deter ,denials of treatment and transfers based on "wallet biopsies." Medically indigent patients who receive emergency services may be eligible for Medicaid or some other source of free or reduced cost care. For more information on Medicaid eligibility, see page 36. For more information on sources of free and reduced cost hospital care, see the next section of this chapter.
Hill Burton Act. Hospitals that received federal Hill Burton Act1S funds for construction and renovation may not deny emergency services to any person who resides or works in the hospital's service area because the person is unable to pay ,for care. This requirement is part of the facility'S community service obligation. 16
The Hill Burton Act was enacted in 1946 to support construction, renovation and rehabilitation of non-profit and public health care facilities, inclUding hospitals and nursing homes. In return '. for these federal grants, loans, and loan guarantees, hospitals have two obligations: an uncompensated care requirement, and a free and reduced cost care requirement. The uncompensated care obligation lasts for twenty years. The community service obligation lasts forever. Although most Hill Burton hospitals' free care obligation has expired, many Georgia hospitals continue to have community service mandates. For a list of these hospitals, see the Resource Directory.
The communitY service obligation requires hospitals and nursing homes that received Hill Burton funds to make services provided by the facility available to people I:esiding and working in

the facility's service area, without discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, creed, or any other ground unrelated to the individual's need for the service or the availability of the needed service in the fadlity. A hospital's service area is the area from which it draws patients, not merely the county in which the hospital is located. Almost all hospitals have mUlti-county service areas. Some Georgia hospitals have state-wide service areas. Many rural hospitals have large service areas that include many counties.
A Hill Burton hospital: may not deny emergency services to any person residing in the facility's service area on the grounds that the person is unable to pay for care;
must participate in the Medicare and Medicaid programs and any state or local programs that pay for care to low income people; and
must post notices informing the public of its community service obligations in English and Spanish, and, when appropriate, in other languages. '
Complaints' can be filed with the Office for Civil Rights of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), which enforces the community service requirements. Patients have a private right of action to enforce the Hill Burton community service requirements, but only after filing an administrative complaint. A court action may be filed six months after an administrative complaint is filed or after dismissal of the complaint by HHS. HHS may dismiss a complaint upon request 45 days after filing.

o
0,

Hospital care for Pregnant Women Act.1T

, Under Georgia law, hospitals with emergency

facilities are required to provide emergency ser-

vices to women who come to them in active

labor. 18 Generally, this means that a hospital

must deliver the baby. However, when a hospital

does not have appropriate services to treat the

woman, it may transfer the woman to a hospital

that does.

A hospital may only transfer a woman in active

labor upon a physician's determination that the

,hospital is unable to provide appropriate treatment

and the woman is in stable condition. '

If a hospital transfers a woman in active labor,

it must:

'

get the other hospital to agree to admit the

patient,

,

send the patient's medical records with her,

o

and

arrange for suitable transportation.19

178

Women refused care in violation ofthe Hospi-

tal Care for Pregnant Women Act have a cause of action against the hospital for damages and other relief. but only if the hospital was grossly negligent or willfully failed to comply.20 Hospitals are immune from malpractice liability for emergency

treatment required pursuant to the Hospital Care

for Pregnant Women Act except in cases of gross

negligence. 21

.

The Department of Human Resources is

charged with administrative enforcement of the

Act. A hospital found in violation is subject to a $500 fine. 22 A facility guilty of three or more

violations in a 12 month period is subject to having its license revoked.23 Violations should be

reported to: Georgia Department of Human

Resources. Office of Regulatory Services. 878

Peachtree St.. Atlanta. Ga 30309. (404) 894- I

5144.

Generally. the cost of care provided under the

Hospital care for Pregnant Women Act is covered

by Medicaid because pregnant women with

family incomes up to 185 percent of the federal. poverty line are eligible for Medicaid.24 However.

if a hospital provides care pursuant to the Act to

an uninsured woman ineligible for Medicaid with income up to 125 percent of the federal poverty guideline. it is entitled to reimbursement from the woman's county of residence.25

Public Hospitals. In Georgia. county hospital authorities are authorized to operate hospitals.26 These public hospitals. if they have an emergency rooms. must provide emergency services to those requesting it.27

What hospitals are obligated to provide free and reduced-cost inpatient and outpatient care?
Many hospitals in Georgia are legally obligated to provide free and reduced cost care. These include hospitals that receive state Indigent Care Trust Fund money. hospitals that receive federal Hill-Burton funds. and public hospitals operated by county hospital authorities. In addition, most private hospitals provide some charity care.

Indigent Care Trust Fund. The Georgia Constitution establishes an Indigent care Trust
Fund to finance primary care, expansion of . Medicaid eligibility and support for health care providers. particularly in rural areas which disproportionately serve indigent patienrs.28 The Indigeilt Care Trust Fund (ICTF) is supported by

state appropriations, hospital and hospital author-

ity taxes. and donations.29

'

The Indigent care Trust Fund, provides partici-

pating hospitals with funds to pay for indigent

care. In return. hospitals must provide a certain

,amount of free and reduced-cost care to the medically indigent.30 Patients with incomes below

125% of the federal poverty line are entitled to free

care. Those with incomes up to 185% of the federal

poverty are eligible for reduced charge, sliding scale fees. 31 Patients do not have to be residents of

the county in which the hospital is located to qualify for Trust Fund payment.32

Trust fund money may be applied to cover the

cost of any service the hospital offers, either

inpatient or outpatient. However. at least 15

percerit of the hospital's Trust Fund payment must

go to support primary care services. These trust

fund-supported primary care activities must be

provided free of charge to Medicaid recipients and those unable to pay for care.33 Hospitals may place

limits on the programs and services eligible for

Trust Fund payment as long as the limits are reasonable.34

Hospitals that receive Indigent care ltust Fund

,(ICTF) money must treat indigent patients without

regard to their ability to pay.35 Patients cannot be

turned away because of their inability to pay for

care. Hospitals must ensure that medically neces-

sary services are not delayed or denied because of inability to pay.36 1CTF hospitals must have a

sufficient number of physicians practicing at the

hospital willing to treat Medicaid and uninsured patients.37

Indigent care 1hlst Fund (ICTF) hospitals must

advertise their participation in the program and the

primary care services supported by the money.

They must provide individual notice to patients

that free and below cost care is available, as well as

information on how to apply. Patients may apply

for Trust Fund payment either before or after

services are provided. A patient denied Trust Fund

eligibility has a right to appeal to the Department of Medical Assistance.38 Patients eligible for ICTF

free and reduced-eost care who are not informed

about the program or not given an opportunity to

apply for care may raise the hospital's noncompli-

ance as a defense to a hospital collection action.

Over seventy hospitals participate in the Indi-

gent care ltust Fund program. Participating

hospitals and the amount of their free care obliga-

tion changes from year to year.- A list of the hospi-

tals that participated in the fund in 1997 is in-

duded on page 193 of this Guide.

179

Hill Burton Hospitals. The Hill Burton Act39

was enacted in 1946 to support construction,

renovation and rehabilitation of nonprofit and

public health care facilities, including hospitals

and nursing homes. In return for these federal

grants, loans. and loan guarantees, hospitals must

provide a certain amount of free or below-cost

care.40 The obligation to provide free or reduced-

cost care ends twenty years after completion of the

HilI Burton construction or when the facility's

uncompensated care requirement is met. 41

No new HilI Burton grants or loans have been

made since the mid-1970s, and most hospitals'

twenty year free care obligation has expired.

Nevertheless, a number of Georgia hospitals still

have HiII Burton free care mandates. The Resource

Directory contains a list of HiII Burton hospitals

and nursing homes stilI required to provide free

and reduced cost care.

HiII Burton hospitals stiII required to provide

free and reduced-cost care must make free care

available to individuals with incomes below 100

percent of the federal poverty line, and may make

free or reduced cost services available to those

with incomes up to 200 percent of the federal

poverty line. Application for HilI Burton free care

can be made before or after services are provided.

Any indication that a patient is unable to pay for

care should be considered a request for Hill Burton

uncompensated care. The facility must make a

written determination of eligibility for care.

Hospitals with outstanding obligations must

post notices that HiII Burton free care is available

in the admissions area, emergency room and

business office. The hospital must also provide

- individual written notice outlining the services

available, the income eligibility guidelines, and the

procedures for applying for free or reduced-cost

care.

Complaints of violations of the HiII Burton free _

care obligation can be filed by writing a letter to

the u,s. Department of Health and Human Ser-

vices (HHS). Patients have a private right of action

to enforce the HiII Burton uncompensated care

requirements, but only after filing an administra-

tive complaint. A court action may be filed six

months after an administrative complaint is filed

a or after dismissal of the complaint by HHS. HHS
may dismiss complaint upon request 45 days

_after filing.

.

Hospitals Operated by Hospital Authorities. In Georgia. public hospitals are operated by county hospital authorities. The purpose of these public

hospitals is to fulfill the county's obligation to
0 provide medical care for the poor.42 Although
public hospitals collect payment for their services, they should be available to all without regard to ability to pay and should offer free and reduced cost services.43 The availability of services and the income requirements vary from county to county.
If a publicly owned hospital is sold, this responsibility to provide free and reduced-cost care continues. The proceeds of the sale must be held in trust to pay for care to poor patients with incomes up to 125 percent of the federal poverty line or the new hospital entity must agree to continue to provide the same volume for indigent care.44
Where can someone get free or reduced-cost physician and other outpatient care7
Community and migrant health centers, and county public health departments are funded to provid-e free and sliding scale seryices to low income people. These programs are discussed in detail in the sections that follow.
Hospitals that receive Indigent care 'nust Fund
0 money must offer at least some primary care
services for free to those who cannot afford to pay for care. For a discussion of the Indigent care 'nust Fund primary care obligation, see the discussion in the section on free and below-cost hospital care.
Counties also have an obligation to provide medical services to those who are unable to pay for care.45 Some counties take this responsibility seriously and provide financial support for outpatient clinics that offer free and sliding scale services. Others provide more limited medical care. To find out about county-funded services available in a particular county, call the county public health department or the county commission. Complaints about eligibility for county-funded services or a lack of county-funded services should be directed to the local county commission.
What services do public health departments provide?
Public health departments operate in every county.46 These departments offer a wid~ variety of medical services primarily designed to prevent
0 the spread of communicable diseases, detect
health problems, and educate people about personal health risks. Public health depaitments also deliver some treatment serVices, particularly those designed to improve maternal and child health.

180



Public health departments must be available to

all. The departments do tend to charge small co-

payments for some services. However, no one

may be denied services because of inability to

pay.47

.

Public health department services vary by

county. However, all counties offer health screen-

ing to detect diseases, chronic conditions, and

developmental problems. When a screening

indicates a need for follow-up care, the depart-

ment refers the individual to an appropriate

source of ongoing care. All counties offer the

following assessments:



child health sCreening for children up to age 21, including physical, developmental, and nutritional assessments; vision and hearing tests, and physicals required for s.chool enrollment;
adult screening for chronic health problems like heart disease, stroke, hypertension, cancer, diabetes, glaucoma, and arthritis;
women's health screening, including, mammograms and pap smears;
sexually transmitted disease screening, including premarital blood testing;
TB screening; and sickle cell screening. Public health departments also offer some treatment services. Some counties provide children's dental services, home health, HIV care, and parenting classes. All counties offer: immunization of children against diptheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio, measles, mumps, .
and rubella; immunization of high risk adults against
influenza; family planning and pregnancy testing; and
prenatal care. The local public health department isa good source of information about the free and reducedcost medical care available in a particular county. A list of county public health departments with addresses and phone numbers is included on page 188 of this Guide.

What services do community and migrant health centers provide?
Community and migrant health centers are one of the major providers of free and reduced cost
outpatient medical care in the United States. In Georgia, community health clinics are the single largest providers of care to the uninsured.
Community health centers offer primary health care services to residents of medically

underserved areas.48 Migrant health centers provide care to migrant and seasonal agricultural workers and their families. 49 These centers generally provide comprehensive services using multidisciplinary teams. The services offered include:
physician, nurse practitioner and physician assistant services;
health assessments and screening; preventive health services; diagnostic, laboratory and radiological services;
emergency medical services; transportation; preventive dental care: and
drugs. Community and migrant health center services are available to all community residents regardless of income or insurance status. Medicaid, Medicare, and private insurance are accepted.5o Patients are billed on a sliding scale. Generally, those with incomes below the federal poverty lines are provided care at no cost. Migrant and community health centers are funded and administered by the federal Bureau of Health care Delivery and Assistance (BHCDA) of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRDSA) of the Public Health Service (PHS) of the U.S. Depart~ent of Heath and Human Services. Generally, the only state funds they receive are Medicaid reimbursement for eligible patients. In Georgia, community and migrant health centers are located in many areas of the state. See the resource listings starting on page 188 of this Resource Guide.

What special programs exist for pregnant

wom~?

.

Georgia has one of the highest infant mortality

rates in the United States. Increased access to early

and regular prenatal care is an important compo-

nent in the effort to improve the health of pregnant

women and reduce Georgia's infant mortality rate.

Toward that end, Georgia's Medicaid program now

covers pregnant women with incomes up to 185

percent of the federal poverty guideline. Details on

Medicaid eligibility start on page 36. .

Public Health Departments. County public heal~h departments offer some free prenatal care to low-income women. They do not deliver babies. Public health departments can provide physician referrals for services they do not provide.

181

Low-Cost Prenatal and Delivery Care Pack-

services in their Region. The Regional Boards

ages. In some counties physicians, hospitals and

know the range of mental health, mental retarda-

the county public health department have agreements to provide reduced-rate physician and

0 tion and substance abuse treatment alternatives

available in their area. For a list of Regional

I

hospital prenatal and delivery care for low income MHMRSA Boards, see pages 18-19.

women who do not qualify for other programs;

Mental health, mental retardation, and sub-

Prenatal care is usually provided free at the county 1 stance abuse services are provided by private

public health department or other primary care

providers, county public health departments"

clinic. Participating physicians and hqspitals offer public Community Service Boards, and state

their services for free or at a reduced charge.

hospitals.57 Prior to 1994, Georgia's public mental

The administration and eligibility standards

health system provided services exclusively using

vary from county to county. Contac~ the local

public providers. Georgia's reformed mental health

public health department to find out if this pro-

system encourages private as well as public

gram is available in a particular county. A list of

providers to offer services.58

public health departments, by county, is included

The sweeping reform of Georgia's mental health

on page 188 of this Guide.

system in 1994 also transformed Georgia's public

community mental health clinics into new public

Other special programs. Several other state

entities caped Community Service Boards.59 The

and federally funded programs offer free and

services offered by Community Service Boards are

reduced-cost care to high risk pregnant women

planned, coordinated, and offered under contract

and newborns with too much income to qualify for with the Regional MHMRSA Boards. 'lWerity-eight

Medicaid.51 County public health departments

Community Service Boards operate throughout the

screen for eligibility and refer patients who qualify state and provide a broad range of services includ-

to private physicians and hospitals that participate ing outpatient care, residential services, day

in the programs.

programs for treatment and training, crisis inter-

Where can someone get.mental health, mental

vention and case management. In most regions the Community Service Boards are the single

0

retardation, and substance abuse treatment?

largest provider of public mental health, mental

In 1994 the Georgia legislature reformed .

retardation and substance abuse services. Commu-

Georgia's mental health service system to assure

nity Service Boards are funded by federal block

that adequate mental health, mental retardation,

grants, state funds, Medicaid and private insur-

substance abuse and disability services were

ance reimbursement. For a list of Community

provided through a uniform system of government Service Boards see pages 19-21.

and private providers.52 Regional Mental Health,

Public mental health services, Whether provided

Mental Retardation, and Substance Abuse

by a private entity or a public Community Service .

(MHMRSA) Boards were created to plan, coordi-

Board, must be provided without regard for ability

nate and contract for public mental health, mental to pay.6O Providers may, however, charge patients

retardation and substance abuse services.53 The

who can afford to pay on a sliding fee scale.

Regional Boards are responsible for assuring that

While the Regional MHMRSA Boards are

a full range of services are available to meet the

statutorily mandated to provide a comprehensive

needs of the region's residents.54 To insure more system of mental health, mental retardation and

accountability and a more responsive service

substance abuse treatment that provides continu-

system, each Board must include consumers and

ity of care, there is no entitlement to any particular

their families.55

type of service or program. However, because the

For information on the services available in a

system is a public governmental program, appli-

particular community, contact the Regional

cants for and recipients of services are entitled to

MHMRSA Board. By law, the Regional Boards are basic due process protections, even when eligibil-

required to provide a simple, convenient single

ity determinations are made by private provid-

point of entry into the often complex mental

ers.61 Programs prOVided under contract to the

health, mental retardation, and substance abuse treatment system.56

Regional MHMRSA Board must be administered according to written criteria.62 Applicants and

0

The Regional Boards do not provide services

recipients are entitled to written notice and an

themselves. Rather, they contract with private and explanation of the reason they are denied or

public entities to provide all public mental health . terminated from services, as well as a right to

182



request a hearing to contest service denials or terminations.63
Adults may be involuntary committed for treatment only when they are mentally ill or a danger to themselves or others.64 A commitment hearing is required.65 Children may be admitted for treatment without a hearing when their parent or other guardian consents and the commitment is in the child's medical best interest. 66 However, a child is entitled to a commitment hearing when the child's guardian is the state or the admission is without consent of the guardian.67 A person involuntarily confined may file a writ of habeas corpus to contest the legality of the detention.68
Complaints about providers of community mental health, mental retardation, and substance abuse should be filed in writing with the appropriate Regional Board.69 By law, the Regional Boards are mandated to investigate and seek to resolve all complaints. 70
Complaints about treatment in a public hospital are made through the hospital's complaint system. The Regional MHMRSA Boards, Community Service Boards, state hospitals and other institutions are administered and supervised by the Georgia Department of Human Resources, Division of Mental Health. Mental Retardation and Sub-
stance Abuse.
What kind of mental health. mental retardation and substance abuse treatment is available in Georgia?
The Regional MHMRSA Boards are responsible ' for planning. coordinating and contracting for public mental health. mental retardation and substance abuse services in their region. They are , mandated to assure that a full range of services are available that meet the needs of the area's residents. As a result of this localized planning process, services vary by region. In general, though, the following services are available in each region: 7 t



Mental Illness. People with serious mental illnesses are diagnosed and treated in both community programs and institutional settings. Most regions offer the following range of community services including:
outpatient treatment including evaluation and diagnosis; individual. family. group and activity therapy; medication and nursing care;
day treatment programs teaching work-related ,skills and daily living skills;
residential services. including shon-term

crisis programs, group hpmes. supervised apartments, and other residences offering varying levels of supervision;
emergency services including short-term medical care and other levels of help dUring a psychiatric crisis; and
case managers to help liQk people to services they need and to coordinate care.
Inpatient services are provided by state hospi, tals in Atlanta, Augusta. Columbus. Milledgeville, , Rome. savannah and Thomasville. These hospitals offer short-term institutional treatment to control symptoms. and limited long term treatment to people charged with a crime but found not guilty by reason of insanity or incompetent to stand trial. To ensure that the focus remains oncommunity care. state hospitals are reqUired to develop a - discharge plan for each patient and to link the patient to community programs.72
Children and Adolescents. Most regions now offer a network of services to help children and teens with severe emotional problems. Services offered include:
outpatient diagnosis. evaluation. and counseling for the child and family. and medication;
in-home crisis teams to work in the home setting with the family and child;
day treatment programs after school and on , weekends to help with behavior and study skills;
therapeutic foster care and group homes when children Cannot live with their families;
respite care to give families and foster families a temporary rest from the strain of caring for a child with severe problems;
state hospitals to provide short term inpatient treatment;
outdoor therapeutic wilderness programs at Warm Springs and Cleveland; and
Multi-agency Teams for Children (MATCH) to locate residential treatment for severely disturbed children and adolescents.
Mental Retardation. Services for those with mental retardation include family and personal support training and a range of in-home services. including respite care, to help people with mental retardation live in the community either with their families or on their own. Residential programs include supervised homes and apartments. and substitute families with the support services that residents need. Community services include day programs to help develop social and work skills.

183

and supported employment to help people. find and keep jobs.
Institutional care is offered. but should be limited to crisis situations. Georgia has one institution devoted exclusively tolong term care for the mentally retarded. Gracewood State SChool and Hospital in Augusta. The state hospitals at Atlanta. Milledgeville. Rome and Thomasville also have long term care units for people with mental retardation. These'long term care units are known as Intermediate Care Facilities/Mentally Retarded (ICF/MR).
( See pages 41 and 43 for description of publicly-funded community care options for children.)
(See pages 51-53 for description of publiclyfunded community care options for adults.)
Substcince Abuse. Services for substance abuse treatment include outpatient services. like group counseling. detoxification programs. short-term residential programs. half-way houses. methadone programs. and prevention programs.
What special programs help with the cost of HIV treatment?
The federal Ryan White C.A.R.E. Act of 1990 73 provides funding for HIV related primary health care. In Georgia. Ryan White and state funds support two statewide programs that provide special services for people withHlV: the AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) and the Continuation . of Health Insurance Program.
The AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) provides HIV treatment drugs to low income. uninsured and under-insured individuals. Details on the ADAP program are included in the section on help with prescription drugs.
The Continuation of Health Insurance Program pays the cost of private health insurance premiums to help people keep their private health insurance. The program pays the premiums on individual and group policies. Individuals who are HIV positive with income up to 200 percent of the federal poverty line qualify for assistance.
Applications are available at county public health departments. The eligibility determination is made by the state Ryan White office. For more information. contact Libby Brown in the state Ryan White Office at (404) 657-3129.
Ryan White and state funds also support local programs prOViding assistance to HlV positive people. In some areas. services include specialized HIV Clinics that prOVide free and sliding scale services to people with HIV infection. For informa-

tion on the local programs available in a particular area. contact the county public health department.
0 A list of public health departments in induded in
the Resource Directory. The Southeast AIDS 1taining and Education
Center'S publication Key Contacts offers a comprehensive listing of medical. social services. housing and peer support programs for people who are HIV positive. For a copy of the booklet, contact the Center by phone. (404).727-2929, or fax. (404) 727-4562.
The AIDS Survival Project in Atlanta has a Peer Counseling Program that operates statewide to help people who are HIV positive navigate the health care and social service system. They can be reached at (404) 874-7926. For information on local support groups, contact the courity public health department.

What medical care does the crime victim's

assistance program cover7

The State of Georgia's Crime Victim's Assistance

Program74 assists victims of violent crime with the

costs of medical care~ counseling, lost wages,

funeral expenses and various other costs not

covered by health insurance. car insurance, sick leave payor other sources. No compensation is

0

paid for stolen, damaged. or lost property .

Assistance is capped at $10,000 per victim.

The following limits apply:

$5,000 for medical expenses;

$2.500 for counseling;

$3,000 for funeral costs; and

$5.000 for economic loss.

The program covers most violent crimes indud- .

ing homicide, sexual assault, child abuse, domes-

tic violence. and crashes caused by drunk drivers.

It does not cover property crimes. Neither does it

assist victims who consent, provoke or participate

in the criminal act. Victims must report the crime

with 72 hours to ~aw enforcement offidals to be

eligible for compensation.

Applications for victim assistance must be filed

within 180 days of the inddent. Application is

made on forms provided by the Office of the

Governor. Criminal Justice Coordinating Council.

Where can one get family planning services7

.Local pUblic health departments offer family

planning and child spacing services including medical examinations and contraceptives. These

O.

clinics prescribe condoms. contraceptive sponges.

.

diaphragms. birth control pills. Norplant,

DepoPrevero. the morning after pill and IUDs.

184



These services are free for those who fall within the income guidelines. A list of county public health departments is induded on page 188 of this Guide.
Private not-for-profit groups also offer medical examinations and family planning services on a reduced-cost and sliding scale basis. Private clinics prescribe the same birth control devices that public health departments do. In addition, they also prescribe emergency contraceptives, a series of birth controls pills taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse which prevents pregnancy. Emergency contraceptives are available via a statewide toll-free number, 1-877-EC-PILLS. The cost for the service is $40. Those without funds are referred for other options.
Private groups also offer counseling and referral for abortion services. A list of private family planning clini<;s is included on page 199 of this Resource Guide.
Although minors usually need to have a parent's consent to medical treatment, minors can consent to treatment for family planning services and contraceptives. Federally funded health care providers must provide such services to minors and must keep the information confidential from parents if requested by the minor. In Georgia, a minor must notify one parent, (consent is not necessary), or obtain a court order to have an abortion. 7s Minors needing legal assistance for the judicial bypass may get referrals for free legal assistance from Planned Parenthood.
What programs help with the cost of prescription drugs'?
Community and migrant health clinics offer free and reduced cost prescription drugs as one of their services. Some county public health departments, outpatient clinics and hospitals have drug assistance programs funded by local, county, and grant funds. For information on local programs, contact the county public health department A list is included on page 188 of this Guide.
1\vo state-wide programs pay for prescription drugs. The Prescription Drug Patient Assistance Program provides free drugs needed to treat chronic conditions. The Ryan White AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) helps people with HIV disease.
Prescription Drug Patient Assistance Programs. Many pharmaceutical companies have programs that provide free prescription drugs to low income people with chronic health problems

who do not have insurance or whose insurance does not pay for the needed drugs. Alist of these companies is included in the Resource Directory.
All the companies have the same non-financial eligibility requirements. First, the presqiption drug must be needed on an ongoing baSis for a chronic condition. Companies do not provide short term drugs like antibiotics except when a patient is discharged home from the hospital on antibiotics. They do not provide narcotics (Class II), hallucinogenics, psychotropics, or barbituates.
Second, the patient must be uninsured or have' insurance that does not cover the requested drug. The programs help uninsured patients, as well as patients with insurance that does not cover prescription drugs, excludes a pre-existing condition, or excludes a specific drug.
Each drug company uses different income and resource cut-offs. Most consider the family's income and size when computing eligibility. Some verification of income is required. A W2 form, pay stub, and Social Security or 551 check or deposit is sufficient.
The physician must submit a written request for the drug. Some companies have an application form. Others just need a letter from the prescribing physician attesting to the patient's need. It generally takes four to six weeks to process an application. After an application is approved, a threemonth supply of drugs is sent to the physician's office. A new application must be made every . three months.
In Chatham and Effingham counties a program called MedBank assists doctors in filling out application forms. It also provides a short term supply of medicine while the drug company application is being processed. Medbank requires a, referral from a community service organization or physician. Its hours are 9:00 a.m. to noon, Monday through Friday. The phone number ,is (912) 356-2898.
Ryan White AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP). ADAP is a state-administered drug reimbursement program that provides HIV medications to low income, uninsured and under-insured individuals. Funds are provided by the federal Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS Resources Emergency (CARE) Act76 and the state of Georgia. ADAP helps uninsured patients, as well as patients with insurance that does not cover prescription drugs, excludes HIV as a pre-existing condition, or excludes a specific HIV drug.
Financial eligibility is set at 30Q percent of the

185

federal poverty guideline. Eligibility is based on

gross income, but deductions are allowed for

outstanding medical bills.

Medical eligibility is based on HIV infection,

CD4 count and viral load. People with CD4 counts

below 500 are medically eligible no matter what

their viral load. HIV infected individuals with CD4

counts above 500 may be eligible depending upon

their viral load..

Georgia's ADAP pays for FDA approved anti-

retrovirals. It covers up to three drugs per month.

Drugs are provided through the Grady Hospital

Pharmacy and local public health departments. At

present, the drugs covered include: delavirdine

(Rescriptor), didanosine (ddl, Videx), indinavir

(Crixivan), lamivudine (3TC, Epivir), nelfinavir

(Viracept), nevirapine (Viracept), ritonavir

(Norvir), saquinavir (Inviarse), stavudine (d4T,

Zerit), zalcitabine (ddC, HIVlD) , and zidovudine

(AZT, RetroVir).

HIV infected people needing drug assistance

should apply to ADAP as soon as possible. In

Georgia, as elsewhere, the demand for ADAP

drugs outstrips available funding. The waiting list

for ADAP services is presently six months. How-

ever, people on the waiting list are generally able

to obtain drugs through the Prescription Drug

Patient Assistance Programs described in this

section.

.

To apply for ADAP contact the local public

.health department or the statewide AIDS hotline:

1(800) 551-2728. For more information, contact

Libby Brown, Ryan White Drug Reimbursement Coordinator, 2 Peachtree Street, NW, 10th Floor,

Room 400, Atlanta, GA 30303, (404) 657-3129.

1 42 U.S.C. 139Sdd. 2 /d. 291.
3 O.C.G.A. 31-8-40-46 to 31-8-46. 4 42 U.S.C. 139Sdd(c). EMTALA also protects those with money who cire denied emergency care for other reasons. 5 42 U.S.C. 139Sdd(a). 6 /d. 1395dd(e)(1)(A). 7 /d. 139Sdd(e)(I)(B). 8 /d. 1395dd(b)(I);/d. 1395dd(e)(3)(B). 9 42 U.S.C. 1395dd(e)(3)(a) and (B). IO/d. 1395dd(c)(l)(ii). II/d. 1395dd(c)(I)(B); /d. 1395dd(c)(2). 12 42 U.S.C. 1395dd(b)(2). 13 Jd. 1395dd(d)(2)(A). 14/d. 1395dd(a)(1).
IS/d. 291; 42 C.ER. pt. 124.
16 The Hill Burton community services regulations are

codified at 42 C.F.R. 124.601 to 124.601.

170.C.G.A. 31-8-40 to 31-8-46.

180.C.G.A. 31-8-42. 19/d. 200.C.G.A. 31-8-45; Id. 31-8-44.

o

21 O.C.G.A. 31-8-44.

22Jd. 31-8-46(b).

23/d. 31-8-46(c).

24 For details on Medicaid eligibility, see Chapter 1.

25 O.C.G.A. 31-8-43(c); /d. 31-8-41 (1). When a

county pays for care, the woman becomes liable to the

county for a part of the cost. Women with countable

incomes below the federal poverty line are charged

$100. Women with ,incomes between 100 and 125 per

cent of the federal poverty line are responsible for a

higher co-payment. O.c.G.A. 31-8-43.1 (a)( 1). The

hospital must apply for county payment by notifying the

county Health care AdVisory Officer in writing. The

county officer must make an eligibility determination

within 60 days and notify both the patient and the

hospital. Id. 31-8-43(c).

26 O.C.G.A. 31-1-12.

27 Williams v. Hospital Authority of Hall County. 119

Ga. App, 626,168 S.E.3d 336 (1969).

28 GA. CoNST. art. III. 9, para. 6; O.c.GoA. 31-8-150.

Georgia law also authorizes two other programs to fund

indigent health care. the Hospital Care for the Indigent

Program, O.C.G.A. 31-8-1 to 31-8-11, and Hospital

care for Non-Resident Indigents, O.C. G.A. 31-8-30.

Neither program has ever been funded.

29 See Ga. Compo R. & Regs. 350-6-.02.

30/d. 350-6-.03(10)(c).

31/d. 350-6-.03(3)(e)(8).

.

o

32 See/d. 350.6.03(4) and (10)(c) (eligibility not

limited by county of residence).

33 Ga. Compo R. & Regs. 350-6-.03(3)(e)(1l) .

Hospitals design their own primary care plan. However,

DMA expects the plan to target one or more of the

following groups: pregnant and postnatal women,

infants and children. the chronically ill and disabled,

homeless, and migrants.

34 Ga. Compo R. & Regs. 350-6-.03(12); Marjorie P.

Smith, COmmissioner of Department of Medical Assis-

tance. Memo: Indigent care 'Ih1st Fund (lCTF) - State

Fiscal Year 1991 (OCtober 3,1996).

35 Ga. Compo R. & Regs. 350-6-.03(3)(e)(4).

36 Ga. COmpo R. & Regs. 350-6-.03(3)(e)(8).

37 Ga. Compo R. & Regs. 350-6-.03(3)(e)(5). 38 Ga. Comp~ R. & Regs. 350-6-.03(12); Marjorie P.

Smith, COmmissioner of Department of Medical Assis-

tance. Memo: Indigent care 'Ih1st Fund (ICTF) - State

Fiscal Year 1997 (OCtober 3,1996). 39 42 U.S.C. 291.

40 The Hill Burton uncompel)sated care regulations are

codified at 42 C.F.R. 124.501 to 124.517.

.

41 42. C.F.R. 124.501 (b)(l). Federal regulations set a

quantitative annual standard of compliance requiring

uncompensated care equal to the lesser of three percent of the facility'S operating cost for the last fiscal year or 10 percent of all federal assistance received by the facility, adjusted for inflation. /d. 124.503(a).

o

42 DeJarnette V. Hospital Authority of Albany, 195

Ga.189, 197-98.23 S.E. 2d 716, 722 (1942) (states

186

.0

owes duty to the indigent sick which can be delegated

to counties and cities).

43 See Williams v. Hospital Authority of Hall County,

119 Ga. App. 626,168 S.E.2d 336 (1969); D.C.G.A

31-7-84 (hospital authority authorized to levy tax to

provide medical care and hospitalization to the poor).

44 D.C.G.A. 31-7-75.1.

45 D.C.G.A. 36-12-1; Dejarnette 195 Ga. at 196-98,

23 S.E.2d at 722.

46 D.C.G.A. 31-3-1 to 31-3-16. The departments

are operated by county boards of health in cooperation

with the state Department of Human Resources,

Division of Public Health. D.C.G.A. 31-2-1 (a).

47 D.C.G.A. 31-3-4(a)(6). 48 42 U.S.C 254c; 42 C.ER. SIc.

49 42 U.S.c. 254b; 42 C.F.R. 56. 50 42 C.F.R. 51c.l07(b)(5) .

.51 Federal money is prOVided by the Maternal and Child

Health (MCH) Block Grant which prOVides federal

funding to support health services to mothers and

children, particularly those with'low income or limited

access to health services. 42 U.S.C. 701 to 702c; 42

C.ER. 51 a; 45 C.F.R. 96.1.

52 D.C.G.A. 37-2-1 (c).

53/d. 37-2-5 to 5.2.

54 D.C.G.A. 37-2-5.2..

55/d. 37-2-5.

56/d. 37-2-5.2

57/d. 37-2-5.2.

58/d. 37-2-1(b).

591d. 37-2-6.

60 Id. 37-2-11.

61 Catanzano v. Dowling, 60 F.3d 113, 117 (Cir. 1995)

(determinations of Medicaid eligibility by home health

agencies constitute state action subject to due process

protections); Grijalva v. Shalala, 946 F.Supp. 747, 752

(D.Ariz. 1996) (HMDs enrolling Medicare recipients

must comply with due process requirements); Daniels

v. Wadley, 926 F.Supp. 1305 (M.D.Tenn. 1996) (HMDs

paid by state Medicaid program and subject to state

regulation must comply with due process require-

ments).

62 Baker-Chaput v. Overseers of the Poor, 406 F.Supp.

1134 (D.N.H. 1976) (due process requires that local

benefit program be administered pursuant to written

and ascertainable standards).

63 Fields v. Pittman, 571 F.Supp. 32 (N.D.Ga. 1983)

(participant in Fulton County Supportive Living

Program entitled to due process protections when

terminated from program).

64 D.C.G.A. 37-3-1 (12). Substance abusers who are

a danger to themselves and others may also be civilly

committed. However, treatment programs generally

eschew forced treatment of substance abusers.

65 D.C.G.A. 37-3-81 (c).

,

66 D.C.G.A. 37-3-20; Parham v. ,.R., 442 U.S. 584

(1979); Zinerman v. Burch, 494 U.S. 113 (1990).

67 Ga. Compo R. & Regs. 290 to 290-4-7-.06.

68 D.C.G.A. 37-3-48; /d. 37-4-108.

69 D.c.GA 37-2-5.2(9).

701d. 37-2-5.2(9).

71 These services description are from Division of

Mental Health Mental Retardation and Substance

Abuse, <http://www2.state.ga.us/DepartmentsIDHRI MHMRSA.htm1>(7/30/98). 72 D.C.G.A. 37-3-161; /d. 37-2-9. 73 The Ryan White Act has four tides. ntle I and II are designed to serve cities and states with high infection rates. ntle II support outpatient HIV early intervention servcies. TItle IV support services to children with HIV and their families. 74 D.C.G.A. 17-15-1 to 17-15-14; Ga. Compo R. & Regs. 143-1-.02. 75 D.C.G.A. 15-11-112. 76 42 U.S.C. 300ff.

187

Additional Sources of Free and

Reduced-Cost Care*

o

o

Watson, sidn~y D.. 1999. A Georgia Advocates Guide to Health care funded by Health Law section of the State Bar of Georgia and

Mercer University Law school.



.

.

188

o



(Clarke) 345 North Harris St. Athens, GA 30601
(706) 542-8600
(Clay) 201 Wilson Sf. Fort Gaines, GA 31751
(912) 768-2355

(Clayton) 675 Forest Parkway Forest Park, GA 30050
(404) 363-6780

(Clinch) 101 -A South College St. HomerviIle, GA 31634
(912) 487-2199

(Cobb) 1650 County Farm Rd. Marietta, GA 30060
(770) 514-2300

(CiffeC) 1111 W. Baker Hwy. Douglas, GA 31533
(912) 389-4450



(Colquitt) 214 West Central Moultrie, GA 31776
(912) 89f-71oo
(Columbia) 6420 Pollards Pond Rd. Appling, GA 30802
(706) 541-1318

(Cook) 204 N. Parrish Ave. Adel, GA 31620
(912) 896-3030

(Coweta) 137 Jackson St. Newnan, GA 30263
(770) 254-7400

(CrawJord) 301 McCrary St. Roberta. GA 31078
(912) 836-3167

(Crisp) . 111 24th Ave. East
Cordele, GA 31015 (912) 276-2680



(Dade) First and Poplar St. ltenton, GA 30752
(706) 657-4213

(Dawson) 54 Hwy. 53 East Dawsonville, GA 30534
(706) 265-2611
(Decatur) 928 West Sf. Bainbridge, GA 31717
(912) 248-3055
(DeKalb) 445 Winn Way Decatur, GA 30031
(404) 244-2200
(Dodge) 505 Plaza Dr. Eastman. GA 31023 .
(912) 374-5576
(Dooly) 204 West Union St. Vienna, GA 31092
(912) 268-4725
(Dougherty) 1710 S. Siappy Boulevard Albany, GA 31706
(912) 430-6200
(Douglas) 6770 Selman Dr. Douglasville. GA 30134
(770) 949-1970
(Early) 329 S. Flowers Dr. Blakely, GA 31723
(912) 723-3707
(Echols) 149 Hwy 94 East Statenville, GA 31648
(912) 559-5103
(fffingham) 802 Highway 119 South Springfield. GA 31329
(912) 754-6484
(Elbert) '27 West Church St. Elberton, GA 30635
(706) 283-3775
(Emanuel) Hwy. #56. North Swainsboro. GA 30401
(912) 237-7501
(Evans) 4 N. Newton St. Claxton, GA 3041 7
(912) 739-2088
189

(Fannin) Industrial Boulevard Blue Ridge, GA 30513
(706) 632-3023
(Fayette) 140 W. Stonewall Ave. Fayetteville. GA 30214
(706) 461-1178
(Floyd) 315 West 10th St. Rome. GA 30165
. (706) 295-.6771
(Forsyth) 428 canton Hwy. Cumming~ GA 30130
(770) 781-6900
(Franklin) 6955 Georgia Hwy. 145 So. Carnesville, GA 30521
(706) 384-5575
(Fulton) 99 Butler St. SE Atlanta, GA 30303
(404) 730-1211
(Gilmer) 50 Southside Church St Ellijay, GA 30540
(706) 635-4363
(Glascock) 601 Main St West Gibson, GA 30810
(706) 598-2061
(Glynn) 1609 Newcastle St. Brunswick. GA 31520
(912) 264-3961
(Gordon) 310 N. River St. Calhoun, GA 30701
(706) 629-0188
(GratlY) 1030 Fourth St.. SE cairo. GA 31728
(912) 377-2992
(Greene) 1031 Appalachee Rd. Greensboro. GA 30642
(706) 453-7561
/Gwinnett) 197 Crogan St. Lawrenceville, GA 30246-0897
(770) 339-4260

(Habersham)
185 SCoggins Dr. Demorest, GA 30535 (706) 778-7156
(Hall)
430 Prior St., SE Gainesville, GA 30503 (770) 531-5600
(Hanrock)
451-A Boland St. Sparta. GA 31087 (706) 444-6616
(Haralson)
Van Wert St. Buchanan, GA 30113 (770) 646-5542
(Harris) Hwy 116 E. Hamilton. GA 31811 (706) 628-5037-
(Hart) 64 Reynolds St. Hartwell. GA 30643-1169 (706) 376-5117
(Heard)
Hwy.27 Franklin. GA 30217 (706) 675-3456
(Henry)
66 Spring St. McDonough. GA 30253 (770) 954-2250
(Houston)
2010 Kings Chapel Rd. Perry, GA 31069 (912) 987-1717
200 carl Vinson Parkway Warner Robins. GA 31088 (912) 542-2050
(Irwin) 107 W. Fourth St. OCilla. GA 31 774 (912).468-5196
(Jackson)
260 Lee St. Jefferson, GA 30549 . (706) 367-5204
(Jasper)
366 Greene St. Monticello, GA 31064 (706) 468-6850

(JdfDavis)
501 S. Cromarte St. . Hazelhurst, GA 31539 (912) 375-2425
(JfiJerson)
Hwy. # I, North Louisville, GA 30434 (912) 625-3716
(Jenkins)
. 414 Hendrix St. Millen, GA 30442 (912) 982-2811
(Johnson)
120 Hilton Holton Dr. Wrightsville. GA 31096 (912) 864-3542
(Jones)
2 Forest Ave. Gray, GA 31032 (912) 986.-3164
(Lamar)
118 Academy Dr. Barnesville. GA 30204 (770) 358-1483
(Lanier)
205 W. Murrell Lakeland, GA 31635 (912) 482-3294
(Laurens)
2121 Bellevue Rd. Dublin, GA 31021 (912) 272-2051
(Lee)
112 Park St. Leesburg, GA 31 763 (912) 759-3014
(LibeT1J')
Oglethorpe Hwy. Hinesville, GA 31313 (912) 876-2173
(Linroln)
176 N. Peachtree St. Lincolnton. GA 30817 (706) 359-3154
(Long) Thornton Dr. Ludowici, GA 31316 (912) 545-2107
(Lowndes)
. 206 S. Patterson St. Valdosta, GA 31604 (912) 333-5255
190

(Lumpkin) 110 W. Hill St.
Dahlonega. GA 30533 (706) 864-3814
(Maron)
100 Chatham Oglethorpe. GA 31068 (912) 472-8121
(Marion)
Baker Street Buena Vista. GA 31803 (912) 649-5664
(McDz!ffie)
307 Greenway St. Thomson. GA 30824 . (706) 595-1740
(Mdntosh) ,
103 Jefferson St Darien. GA 31305 (912) 437-4561
(Meriwether)
Court Square. P.O. Box 159 Greenville. GA 30222 (706) 672-4974
(MI7Ier)
250 W. Pine St. Colquitt. GA 31737 (912) 758-3344
(Mitchell) 88 W. Oakland Ave.
camilla, GA 31730 (912) 336-2055
(Monroe)
106 Culloden Rd. Forsyth, GA 31029 (912) 994-5329
(Montgomery)
215 W. Broad St. Mt. Vernon. GA 30445 (912) 583-4602
(Morgan)
259 North Second St. Madison. GA 30650 (770) 342-1726
(MUTTay) 709 Old Dalton-Ellijay Hwy. Chatsworth. GA 30705 (770) 695-4585
(Muscogee)
2100 Comer Ave. Columbus, GA 31902-2299 (706) 321-6300

o o
o



(Newton) 5220 Hwy. 278, NE Covington. GA 30209 (770) 786-4502
(Oglethorpe) 109 S. Boggs Street Lexington, GA 30648 (706) 743-8181
. (Paulding) 451 jimmy campbell Pkway Dallas. GA 30132 (770) 443-7881
(Peach) 406 E. Church Street Fort Valley, GA 31030 (912) 825-6939
(Pickens) 1412 E. Church'St jasper. GA 30143 (706) 692-2821
(Pierce) 253 carter Ave. Blackshear, GA 31516 (912) 449-2032
(Pike) 222 Gwyn St. Zebulon, GA 30295 (770) 567-8972
(Polk) 125 East Ware St Cedartown, GA 30125 (706) 749-2270
(PulaskI) 301 N. Lumpkin St Hawkinsville, GA 31036 (912) 783-1361
(Putnam) 103 N. Washington St. Eatonton, GA 31024 (706) 485-8591
(Quitman) Main Street Georgetown, G'A 31 754 (912) 334-3697
(Rabun) 465 W. Savannah St Clayton, GA 30525 (706) 782-4227
(Randolph) 410 N. Webster St Cuthbert, GA 31740 (912) 732-2414

(Richmond) 843 Broad St. Augusta, GA 30901 (706) 724-4214
(Rockdale) 1329 Portman Dr., Suite 0 Conyers, GA 30207 (770) 785-5936
(Schley) 327 Hwy 26 W Ellaville, GA 31806 (912) 937-2308
(Screven) 416 Pine St. Sylvania, GA 30467 (70~) 564-2190
(Seminole) 904 N. Wiley Ave. Donalsonville, GA 31745 (912) 524-2577
(Spalding) 1007 Memorial Dr. Griffin, GA 30224 (770) 227-5528
(Stephens) 222 N. Boulevard Toccoa, GA 30577 (706) 282-4507
(Stewan) Hwy 275 Lumpkin, GA 31815 (912) 838-4859
(Sumter) 208 Rucker Street Americus, GA 31709 (912) 924-3637
(Talbot) Hwy41 N. Thlbotton, GA 31827 (706) 665-8561
(Taliqferro) 109 Commerce St., NW Crawfordville, GA 30631 (706) 456-2316
(Tattnall) 200-B S. Main St. Reidsville, GA 30453 (912) 557-6791
(Taylor) Hwy 137 W. Butler, GA 31006 (912) 862-5472
191

(Telfair) 713-A Telfair Ave. McRae, GA 31055 (912) 868-7404
(Terrell) 969 Forrester Dr. Dawson, GA 31742 (912) 995-8435
(Thomas) 440 Smith Ave. Thomasville, GA 31792 (912) 226-4241
(ITfi) 305 E. 12th St. TIfton, GA 31794 (912) 386-8373
(Toombs) 126 W. Grady St. Lyons, GA 30436 (912) 526-8108
(Towns) 41 River St. Hiawassee, GA 30546 (706) 896-2265
(lreutlen) 619 Third St. Soperton, GA 30457 (912) 529-4217
(lroup) 107 Medical Dr. laGrange, GA 30240 (706) 845-4085
(1Umer) 745 Hudson St. Ashburn, GA 31714 (912) 567-4357
(lwiggs) 105 N. Ash St. jeffersonville, GA 31044 (912) 945-3351
(Union) 55 HugheS St., Suite A Blairsville, GA 30512 (706) 745-6292
(Upson) 605 W. Gordon St. Thomaston, GA 30286 (706) 647-7148
(Walker) 603 Villanow St. laFayette, GA 30728 (706) 638-5577

(Walton) 1404 S. Madison Ave. Monroe, GA 30655 (770) 207-4125
(Ware) 604 Riverside Dr. Waycross, GA 31501 . (912) 283-1875
(Warren) 510 Legion Dr. Warenton, GA 30828 (706) 465-2252
(Washington) 201 Morningside Dr. Sandersville, GA 31082 (912) 552-3210
(Wayne) 240 Peachtree St. Jesup, GA 31545 (912) 427-2042
(Webster) Washington St. Preston, GA 31824 (912) 828-3225
(Wheeler) 414 Kent St. Alamo, GA 30411 (912) 568-7161
(White) 1241 Helen Hwy:, Unit 210 Cleveland, GA 30528 (706) 865-2191
(Whi!field) 808 Professional Boulevard Dalton, GA 30720 (706) 226-2621
(Wilcox) 420 Second St. Rochelle, GA 31079 (912) 365-2310
(Wilkes) 204 Gordon St. Washington, GA 30673 (706) 678-2622
(Wilkinson) 125 High Hill St. Irwinton, GA 31042 . (912) 946-2226
(Wilkinson) 209 Elam St. Gordon, GA 31031 (912) 628-5353

(Worth) 1012 W. Franklin St. Sylvester, GA 31791 (912) 777-2150
for free and sliding scale medical services:
(Baker. Calhoun. Colquitt. Decatur, Dougherty. Early. Grady. Lee. M111er, Mitchell, Seminole, Terrell Thomas) Albany Area Primary
Health Care 804 14th Ave. Albany, GA 31701 (912) 888-6559
(Clarke) Athens Neighborhood
Health center 675 College Ave. Athens, GA 3060~ (706) 546-5526
(All Counties) central Health center 201 Washington St. Atlanta, GA 30303 (404) 659-0117
(Emanuel) East Georgia Healthcare Center, Inc. 316 North Main St. Swainsboro, GA 30401 (912)' 237-2638
(Lumpkin. Dawson, Forsyth) Georgia Highlands Medical services 260 Elm St. Cumming, GA 30028 (770) 887-1668
(Fannin) Georgia Mountains Health
Services Morganton Family Practice Hwy 76 Morganton, GA 30560 (706) 374-6806
(Johnson. Washington, Jdt'erson, Laurens) Johnson Center for
Community Health 508 West Elm St. Wrightsville, GA 31096 (912) 864-2600
192

(Hart. Madison. Elbert, Oglethorpe)

Northeast Health Systems, Inc.

11 Charlie Morris Rd.

Colbert, GA 30628' (706) 788-3234

0

(All Counties) Oakhurst Community
Health center 770 Village Square Dr. Stone Mountain, GA 30083 (404) 298-8998

(Coweta, Fayette, Spalding, Pike, Lipsom. Monroe, Lamar, Heard, Men'wether)
Palmette Health Council, Inc. 507 Park St Palmetto, GA 30268 (770) 463-4644

(Dade, Walker. Chatooga) Primary Health Care center of Dade 13750 North Main St. ltenton, GA 30752 (706) 657-7575

(Wilcox. Irwin. Ben H17l)

South central Primary

Health Care, Inc.

357 cargile Rd.

Ocilla, GA 31774 (912) 468-9160

0

(Muscogee) South Columbus
Community Health center 804 Veterans Parkway Columbus, GA 31901 (706).322-0959

.(Dekalb. Cobb. Fulton, dayton) Southside Healthcare, Inc. 1039 Ridge Ave., SW Atlanta, GA 30315 (404) 688-1350

(Stewart, Webstcr, Quitman, Sumter) Stewart-Webster Rural Health 220 Alston St. Richland, GA 31825 (912) 887-3324

(Hancock. Warren, McDl!ffie, Talio/eTTo, Glascock)
lri-County Health System, Inc. 140 Norwood Rd. Warrenton, GA30828 (706) 465-3253

(Atkinson, Ware) McKinney Community
Health center

0

218 Quarterman St.

Waycross. GA 31502

(912) 287-9140



(Fulton. Dekalb) West End Medical Centers 34 Peachtree St.. NW One Park Tower Building, Suite 780 Atlanta. GA 30303
(404) 524-6793
(Chatham) Westside-Urban Health centers 115 East York St. Savannah. GA 31401
(912) 944-6080
Inpatient and Outpatient Hospital Care
For free and below cost hospital and primary care paid for by the Indigent Care Trust Fund:
(Appling) Appling General Hospital 301 East Tollison St. Baxley. GA 31513-0326
(912) 367-9841
(Bacon) Bacon County Hospital 302 South Wayne St. Alma. GA 31510-2997
(912) 632-8961
(Baldwin) Oconee Regional Medical
center 821 North Cobb St. Milledgeville. GA 31061-0690 (912) 454-3505
(Barrow) Columbia Barrow Medical
center 316 North Broad St Winder. GA 30680-0768 (770) 867-3400
(Ben Hill) Dorminy Medical Center 200 Perry House Rd: Fitzgerald. GA 31 750-1447
(912) 424-7100
(Bibb) Medical center of central
Georgia 777 Hemlock St. Macon, GA 31208-6000 (912) 633-1000

(Bulloch) Bulloch Memorial Hospital 500 EastGrady St. Statesboro. GA 30458-5243
(912) 764-6671 .
(Burke) Burke County Hospital 351 Liberty St. Waynesboro. GA ~0830-9686
(706) 554-4435
(Candler) Candler County Hospital 400 Cedar Rd. Metter. GA 30439-0597
(912) 354-9211
(Camden) Camden Medical center 2000 Dan Proctor Dr. Saint Marys. GA 31558-3799
(912) 576:'4200
(Catoosa) Hutcheson Medical center 100 Gross Crescent Ft Oglethorpe, GA 30742-3669
(706) 858-2000
(Chatham) Memorial Medical center 4700 Waters Ave. Savannah. GA 31403-3089
(912) 350-8000
(Clarke) Athens Regional Medical
center 1199 Prince Ave. Athens, GA 30606-2793 (706) 549-9977
(Clinch) Clinch Memorial Hospital 524 carswell St. Homerville. GA 31634-0516
(912) 487-5211
(CQ./fee) Coffee Regional Medical
center 1101 Ocilla Rd. Douglas. GA 31533-3617 (912) 384-1900
(Colquitt) ColqUitt Regional Medical
center 3131 Thomesville Hwy. Moultrie. GA 31776 (912) 985-3420

(Cook) Memorial Hospital and
Manor 706 North Parrish Ave. Adel. GA 31 71 7-4294 (912) 896-2251
(crisp) Crisp Niegional Hospital 902 7 St. North Cordele. GA 31010-5007
(912) 276-3100
(DeKalb) Children's Hospital at
Emory University 1405 Clifton Rd., NE Atlanta, GA 30322-1101 (404) 325-6000
(Dodge) Dodge County Hospital 715 Griffin St. Eastman, GA 31023-4309
(912) 374-4000
(Doo/y) Dooly Medical center 1300 East Union St. Vienna, GA 31092
(912) 268-4141
(Dougherty) Phoebe Putney Memorial
HOS~~1 4173 Ave. Albany, GA 31702-1828 (912) 883-1800
(EarlY) Early Memorial Healthcare Complex 630 COlumbia Rd. Blakely. GA 31723-1798
(912) 723-4241
(Elbert) Elbert Memorial Hospital Four Medical Dr. Elberton, GA 30635-1897
(706) 283-3151
(Emanuel) Emanuel Medical center 117 Kite Rd. Swainsboro, GA 30401-0879
(912) 2379911
(Evans) Evans Memorial Hospital, Inc. 200 North River St. Claxton, GA 3041 7
(912) 739-2611

193

194



(Thomas) John D. Archbold
Memorial Hospital Gordon Ave at Mimosa Dr. Thomasville, GA 31799-1018
(912) 228-2000

(7J/t) TIft Genera\~ospital 901 East 18 St.
TIfton. GA 31793
(912) 382-7120

(Toombs) Meadows Regional Health System 1703 Meadows Lane Vidalia, GA 30474-1048 (912) 537-8921
(lToup) West Georgia Medical Center 1514 Vernon Rd. La Grange, GA 30240-1567 (706) 882-1411



(Upson) Upson Regional Medical
Center 801 West Gordon St. Thomaston. GA 30286 (706).647-8111
(Ware) Satilia Regional Medical
Center 410 Darling Ave. Waycross. GA 31502 -0 139 (912) 283-3030

(Wayne) Wayne Memorial Hospital 865 South First St. Jesup. GA 31545-0408 (912) 427-6811

(Wheeler) Wheeler County Hospital Third St. Glen',ood, GA 30428-0398 (912) 523-5113

(Whi[field) Hamilton Medical center 1200 Memorial Dr. 'Dalton. GA 30722 (706) 278-2105



(Worth) Baptist Hospital of Woith County Hospital
807 South Isabella
Sylvester. GA 31 791 -2540 (912) 776-6961

These hospitals are neiv to the Indigent Care lTust Fund in 1999:
(Brooks) Brooks County Hospital 903 North Court Street Quitman, GA 31643 (912) 263-4171
(Calhoun) Calhoun Memorial Hospital 209 Academy St. S.E. Arlington, GA 31713-0496 (912) 725-4272
(Charlton) Charlton Memorial
Hospital 1203 North Third St. Folkston, GA 31537-0188 (912) 496-2531
(Cobb) Cobb Memorial Hospital 521 Franklin Springs St. Royston. GA 30662 (706) 245-5071
(Douglas) Columbia Parkway Medical
center 1000 Thornton Road Lithia Springs, GA 3b057-0570 (770) 732-7777
(Fulton) Hughes Spalding Children's Hospital 35 Butler Street. S.E. Atlanta. GA 30303-3032 (404) 616-6600
(Habersham) Habersham County Medical center Highway 41 Demorest. GA 30535-0037 (706) 754-2161
(Hancock) Hancock Memorial Hospital 453 Borland Street Sparta. GA 31087-0490 (706) 444-7006
(Haralson) Higgins General Hospital 200 Allen Memorial Drive Bremen. GA 30110-0655 (404) 537-5851

(Henry) Henry General Hospital 1133 Eagles' Landing Pkway Stockbridge. GA 30281-5099 (770) 389-2200
(JdJerson) Jefferson Hospital 1067 Peachtree St. Louisville, GA 30434-0528 (912) 625-7000
(Monroe) Monroe County Hospital 88 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. Forsyth. GA 31029-1068 (912) 994-2521
(Murrqy) Murray Medical center 770 Old Elijay Road Chatsworth, GA 30705-1406 (706) 695-4564.
(Polk) Polk General Hospital 424 North Main Street Cedartown. GA 30125-2698 (770) 748-2500
(Putnam) Putnam General Hospital Greensboro Highway Eatonton. GA 31024-4330 (706) 485-2711
(Screven) Screven County Hospital 215 Mims Road Sylvania. GA 30467-2097 (912) 564-7426
(Wilkes) Wills Memorial Hospital 120 Gordon Street Washington. GA 30673-0370 (706) 678-2151

195

For hospitals that .
received federal Hill Burton funds and .
continue to be . obligated to provide free and below cost care:

Grady Health System 80 Butler St., SE Atlanta, GA 303553022 (404) 616-4307

SaintJoseph's Hospital 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., NE Atlanta, GA 30342-1764 (404) 851-7001

Medical College of Georgia Hospit~ and Clinics 1120 15 S1.
Augusta. GA 30901-3157
(706) 721-0211

Marion County Hospital Hwy. 41 North Buena Vista, GA 31803
(912) 649-2331

Miller County Hospital 209 North Cuthbert St. Colquitt. GA 31737-0007 (912) 758-3385

Elbert Memorial Hospital 4 Medical Dr. Elberton, GA 30635-1897
(706) 283-3151

Taylor Regional Hospital

Macon Hwy.

.

Hawkinsville. GA 31036-1297

(912) 783-0200

Mountainside Medical Center 1266 East Church St.
Jasper, GA 30143 (706) 692-2441
1Y Cobb Health Care
System 521 Franklin Springs St. Royston, GA 30662 (706) 245-5034

Memorial Medical center, Inc. 4700 Waters Ave. Savannah. GA 31403-3089 (912) 350-8000

For Hill Burton hospitals with community service obligations:
(Appling) Appling General Hospital 301 East Tollison Street Baxley. GA 31513-0326 (912) 367-9841
(Baldwin) Central State Hospital Broad Street Milledgeville, GA 31062-0001 (912) 453-4128
(Bartow) Columbia Cartersville
Medical Center 960 Joe Frank Harris Pky Cartersville, GA 30120 (770) 382-1530
(Ben Hill) Dorminy Medical Center 200 Perry House Road Fitzgerald. GA 31 750-1447
(Bibb) Medical center of Central
Georgia 777 Hemlock Street Macon. GA 31208-6000 (912) 633-1000
(Bleckley) Bleckley Memorial Hospital 408 Peacock Street Cochran, GA 31014-0536 (912) 934-6211
(Bulloch) Bulloch Memorial Hospital 500 East Grady Street Statesboro. GA 30458-5243 (912) 7,64-6671
(Burke) Burke County Hospital 351 Liberty Street Waynesboro, GA 30830-9686 (706) 554-:-4435
(Butts) Sylvan Grove HosPital 1050 McDonough Road Jackson, GA 30233-1599 (710) 715-7861
(Calhoun) Calhoun Memorial Hospital 209 Academy Street, S.E. Arlington, GA 31113-0496 (912) 725-4272

196

(Candlj
0 Tanner Medical center - Villa Rica
601 Dallas Road . Villa Rica, GA 30180-0638' (770) 459-7100

(Catoosa) Hutcheson Medical Center 100 Gross Crescent Circle Ft Oglethorpe. GA 30742-3669 (706) 858-2000

(Chatham)
Memorial Medical Center, Inc. 4700 Waters Avenue . Savannah, GA 31403-3089 (912) 350-8000

Saint Joseph's Hospital, Inc. 11 705 Mercy Boulevard Savannah, GA 31419-1791
(912) 925-4100

(Qarke)
Athens Regional Medica"Center 1199 Prince Avenue Athens, GA 30606-2793 (706) 549-9977

(Clinch!) Clinch Memorial Hospital 524 carswell Street Homerville, GA 31634-0516 (912) 487-5211
(Cobb) Wellstar Cobb Hospital 3950 Austell Rd. Austell. GA 30106-1121 (770) 732-3586,

o

Promina Kennestone Hospital 677 Church Street Marietta, GA 30060-1208 (770) 793-5000,

(Coffee)
Coffee Regional HosPital 1101 OCilla Road Douglas, GA 31533-1248 (912),384-1900

(Colquitt) Colquitt Regional Medical center 3131 Thomasville Highway Moultrie, GA 31776-0040 (912) 985-3420

(Decatur)

,

Memorial HoSpital and Manor

1500 East ShotweD St.

, Bainbridge, GA 31717

(912) 246-3500 .

o



(DeKalb) DeKalb Medical Center 2701 North Decatur Road Decatur. GA 30033 (404) 501-1000
(Dougherty) Phoebe Putney Memorial
Hospital 417 Third Avenue Albany, GA 31702-1828 (912) 883-1800
(Douglas) Douglas General Hospital 8954 Hospital Drive Douglasville. GA 30134-6445 (404) 949-1500
(Early) Early Memorial Healthcare
Complex 630 Columbia Road Blakely. GA 31723-1798 (912) 723-4241
(Elbert) Elbert Memorial Hospital Four Medical Drive Elberton, GA 30635-1897 (706) 283-3151
(Emanuel) Emanuel Medical Center 117 Kite Road Swainsboro. GA 30401-0879 (912) 237-9911 .
(Floyd) Floyd Medical center 304 Thrner Mceall Blvd Rome, GA 30162-0233 (706) 295-5500
(Franklin) Cobb Memorial Hospital 521 Franklin Springs St. Royston. GA 30662-3934 (706) 245-5071
(Fulton) Grady Health System 80 Butler Street, S.E. Atlanta. GA 30355-3022 (404) 616-4307
Southwest Hospital & Medical center
501 Fairburn Road. S.W. Atlanta. GA 30331-2099 (404) 699-1111
Saint Joseph's Hospital of Atlanta 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Road, N.E. Atlanta. GA 30342-1764 (404) 851-7001

South Fulton Medical Center 1170 Cleveland Avenue East Point, GA 36344-3600 (404) 305-3500
Northside Hospital 1000 Johnson Ferry Rd. NE Atlanta. GA 30342-1611 (404) 851-8000
(Glynn) Southeast Georgia Regional
Medical Center 3100 Kemble Ave. Brunswick. GA 31521 (912) 264- 7000
(Gordon) Gordon Hospital 1035 Red Bud Road Calhoun. GA 30703 (706) 629-2895
(Grao/) Grady General Hospital. 1155 Fifth Street. S.E. Cairo. GA 31728-3142 (912) 377-1150
(Gwinnett) Joan Glancy Memorial Hospital 3215 McClure Bridge Road Duluth. GA 30096 (770) 497-4800
(Habersham) Habersham County Medical Center Highway 441 Demorest. GA 30535-0037 (706) 754-2161
(Hall) Northeast Georgia Medical center, Inc. 743 Spring Street, N.E. Gainesville. GA 30501-3899 (770) 535-3553
(Haralson) Higgins General Hospital 200 Allen Memorial Drive Bremen, GA 30110-0655 (404) 537-5851
(Houston) Perry Hospital 1120 Morningside DriVe Perry, GA 31069-1104 (912) 978-3600
(Jackson) Banks Jackson Commerce Medical Center 70 Medical center DriVe Commerce, GA 30529-9989 (706) 335-1 000

197

(Lowndes) South Georgia Medical Center 2501 North Patterson Street Valdosta, GA 31603-1727 (912) 333-1000
(Lumpkin) Chestatee Regional Hospital 1111 Mountain Drive Dahlonega. GA 30533 (706) 864-6136
(Meriwether) Roosevelt Warm Springs Institute for Rehabilitation Highway 27 Warm Springs. GA 31830-0268 (706) 655-5001
Georgia Baptist Meriwether Hospital
5995 Spring St. Warm Springs, GA 31 830 (706) 655-3331
(Miller) Miller County Hospital 209 North Cuthbert Street Colquitt. GA 31737-0007 (912) 758-3385
(Mitchell) Mitchell County Hospital 90 East Stephens Street Camilla. GA 31730-0639 (912) 336-5284
(Morgan) Morgan Memorial Hospital 1077 South Main Street Madison, GA 30650-0860 (706) 342-1667
(Murrqy) Murray Medical center 770 Old Elijay Road Chatsworth. GA 30705-1406 (706) 695-4564
(Muscogee) The Medical center, Inc. 7I0 center Street Columbus. GA 31902-9051 (706) 571-1155
(Newton) Newton General Hospital 5126 Hospital DriVe. N.E. Covington, GA 30209-3294 (770) 253-2330
. (Paulding) Wellstar Paulding Hospital 600 West Memorial Drive Dallas, GA 30132-1397 (770) 445-4411

198



(llaxo Wellcome, Inc. 1-800-722-9294
Hocchst Marion Roussell Inc. 1-800-221-4025
Janssen Pharmaceutica 1-800-544 -2987
Knoll Pharmaceutical Company 1-800-524-2474
Lederle Laboratories (See WyethAyerst Laboratories) 1-800-424-3727 or 1-703-706-5933
Eli Lilly and Company 1-800-545-6962
The Liposome Company Inc. 1-800-335-5476
Merck and Co., Inc. 1-800-994-2111

Sanofi Pharmaceuticals 1-800-446-6267
Schering Laboratories/Key Pharmaceuticals 1-800-521-7157 .
Searle 1-800-542-2526
Serono Laboratories, Inc. 1-617-982-9000
Sigma-Tau Pharmaceuticals Inc. 1-800-999-NORD
Smithkline Beecham Pharmaceuticals 1-800-546-0420
Solvay Pharmaceuticals Inc. 1-800-788-9277
3M Pharmaceuticals 1-800-328-0255

Savannah center 44-B Lee Boulevard Savannah. GA 31405 (912) 351-0116
Administrative Office 100 Edgewood Ave. Suite 1604 Atlanta. GA 30303 (404) 688-9305
First Line (404) 659-HELP
Health Talk (404) 688-9901 Outside Atlanta 1- (800) 622-0242
Femin~ Women's Health center 580 14 St., N.W. Atlanta. GA 30318 (404) 874-7551 or 1-800-877-6013

Novartis Pharmaceuticals 1-800-257-3273

Wyeth-Ayerst Laboratories 1-703- 706-5933



Ortho Biotech, Inc. 1-800-553-3851
Ortho Dermatological 1-800-797-7737
Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical, Inc. 1-800-797-2737
Parke-Davis 1-908-725-1247
Pasteur Merieux Connaught 1-800-822-2463
PflZer Inc. 1-800-646-4455
Pharmacia & Upjohn Inc. 1-800-242-7014
Procter & Gamble Pharmaceuticals Inc. 1-800-448-4878
Rhone-Poulenc Rorer Inc. 1-610-454-8110
Roche Laboratories Jnc. 1-800-285-4484
Roxane Laboratories 1~800-274-8651
Sandoz Pharmaceuticals (See Novartis Pharmaceuticals) 1-800-257-3273

Zeneca Pharmaceuticals 1-800-424 -3 72 7
family Planning
for free and reduced cost .familylIanning services an information:
County Public Health Department
See page /88Jor listing if
addresses and phone numbers.
Planned Parenthood of Georgia
Atlanta Downtown center 100 Edgewood Ave.,Suite 1604 Atlanta, GA 30303 (404 )-688-9300
Cobb center 61 7 Roswell St. Marietta, GA 30060 (770) 424-1477
Gwinnett center 950 Indian Trail. Suite 5 D Lilburn. GA 30047 (770) 381-2664

199

NOTES
o
\
o
o
200





.I

Support services




computer and Related Technology




Arkenstone, Inc. Arkenstone, Inc., is a leader in helping people who are blind, visually impaired or dyslexic access information more effectively. 1800-444-4443 or 1-408-245-5900 or www.arkenstone.org.
({)gnitive Concepts, Inc. Cognitive Concepts, Inc. developed Earobics, an education auditory development and phonics awareness program. Earobics teaches the listening skills that make your child a better reader. listener and learner. 1-888-3288199 or www.cogcon.com.
Don Johnston, Inc. Don Johnston, Inc. goes beyond traditional learning products to bring you solutions for mobility disabilities and those who struggle with reading and writing. 1-800-9994660 or www.donjohnston.com.
Edmark. Edmark develops and markets accessible educations solutions to suit a wide range of students. One such solution, Visual Voice Tools, is a collection of seven "tools" that helps students and adults develop fine control of their voices. 1-800-362-2890 or www.edmark.com.
"Empowered by IBM" Program/Special Offering for Customers with Special Needs. As part of its continued commitment to support people with disabilities, IBM announces its "Empowered by IBM" program. With this plan, customers with special needs can take advantage ifreduced pricing on selected IBM ThinkPad notebook computers and Aptiva personal computers. Offered by IBM Special Needs Systems. this program represents IBM's hope to prOVide greater computer accessibility for persons who have disabilities and to eInpower them to succeed at new levels.
IBM AccessDos - a set of utilities to enhance keyboard access.
IBM Home Page Reader - a self-voicing browser that orally communicates web-based information just as it is presented on the computer screen.

IBM Screen Magnf/iei/2 - a software tool that enlarges text and image displayed by programs running from the OS/2 Desktop.
IBM Screen Reader/2 - a software tool. complete with access to the Internet, that converts screen information into speech for people with visual, impairment who use OS/2.
IBM Screen Reader/DOS - a screen text-tospeech conversion tool for people who are visually impaired who use DOS.
IBM Speech Viewer IIIJor Windows - a clinical, multimedia tool designed to increase the efficience of speech modification for people who are speech/ language/hearing impaired.
IBM ViaVoice- this powerful speech recognition solutions converts speech-to-text for persons who have mobility impairments and may assist people with learning disabilities like dyslexia.
Customers with specials need can simply call 1800-426-7630 for details about pricing and specific solutions. Please refer to the priority code "EMPOWER."
For more information about IBM products for people with disabilities, please visit their web site at http://www.ibm.com/sns or call the Independence Series Information Center at 1-800-4264832 or 1-800-426-4833 (TIT) for further information.
To purchase IBM hardware and software products call 1-888-426-5800 and refer to the priority code "EMPOWER." .
Henter Joyce, Inc. Henter Joyce, Inc. offers software that allows people who are blind or visually impaired computer to access to a whole world of information. 1-800-336-5658 or www.hj.com.
Inspiration software, Inc. Inspiration Software offers solutions that support visual mind mapping to enhance thinking skills for use in education and business. 1-508-297-3004 or www.inspiration.com.

203

~--_._-

~~~~~~~~-

Little Planet Publishing. Little Planet Publishing develops and markets reading and writing programs for kids and teachers. Little Planet offers tools that introduce reading and language in an engaging environment that allows children to work collabor~t!vely as they develop language art skills. 1-800-974-2248 or www.littleplanet.com,.
Microsoft Accessibility and Disabilities. Provides information and tools that can help . people with dis?bilities remove barriers and make the world more accessible. Offers information about accessibility, Microsoft products, keyboard and product assistance and accessi.bility aids and resources. http://www.microsoft.com/enable/
Apple Computer. Disability Resources. This site' provides information about technology arid learning resources for people with special needs. Apple has a menu of services which are linked to this site including resource sheets for specific disabilities, and cutting edge assistive technology products sucbas voice recognition and a Macintosh specifically designed for people who are disabled. Other features include a software library which includes freeware and shareware specific to the needs of users with disabilities. This site is 100% accessible. Hnp:l/www.apple.com/education/k-12/disabilityl

o o

o
204

Financial Planning for
Individuals with Disabilities



For many people with disabilities and their families, the struggle to obtain sufficient resources to provide necessary services and supports in the present is so challenging that little thought or effort has been given to planning for the future. For many people with disabilities. Supplemental Social Security Insurance (551) and/or Medicaid or other government funded sources are often the primary sources of funds. Losing these resources could be devastating. But many families also have some assets that they would like to see benefit their family members with a disability. With good planning. people with disabilities and their families can allocate resources to assist the person with a disability to have a high quality of life while maximizing governmental benefits that may be available for support.
In Georgia, there are basically three different ways to structure future financial supports for a person with a disability:
Gifts and outright bequests A person can make gifts directly to a person
with disabilities during his/her lifetime or include provisions in his/her will or trust for the transfer of assets to the individual after the person dies. These gifts become "available assets" for any governmental agency providing need-based benefits such as 551 or Medicaid and as such. may not go very far or last very long because these agencies require the individual's assets to be spertt for the individual's care. If a person with a disability has difficulty with or is not able to manage financial matters, a direct gift or outright bequest can create additional problems or make the individual with disabilities a target for financial abuse.
Creating an Intervivos Special Needs Trust This is a good way to manage and protect the
assets of a person with a disability without affecting the person's eligibility for governmental assistance such as 551, Medicaid or other government funded programs. A well written trust document can protect assets in a manner that

makes them available to provide for additional needs of the person with a disability and which will supplement, not take the place of, government benefits. Through receiving supplemental resources from a trust, added to what can be provided by government benefits, a person with a disability can enjoy a better standard of living. . Establishing a trust may also eliminate court intervention by preventing the need for the court to appoint a guardian to manage the person's assets. Generally. to be cost effective. most individual Special Needs Trusts must be relatively large, generally starting at around $100.000.
If you are interested in setting up a Special Needs Trust, you may need the assistance of a team of experienced advisors which might include an attorney. an accountant and possibly a financial consultant.
1\vo places to inquire about more information on setting up a Special Needs nust are Smith Barney:s Estate and Trust Services Group and,the Affiliated nust Companies which can be reached at their Financial Management Account Client Service Center at (800) 227-4238 and Frank M. Pearson, Attorney at Law at (912) 489-4226.
The Georgia Community Trust This is another method to provide for a family
member with a disability. Through this method a person can leave assets to the nust and earmark them for the intended beneficiary. These assets can be used to enrich the life of the beneficiary without forcing him/her to forfeit basic care he/ she may be receiving through public assistance
can programs much like the individual trust described
above. Assets be used for such things as supplemental education, private rehabilitation, recreation, entertainment. and medical and diagnostic treatment beyond Medicaid benefits. Under Georgia law, a community trust must be sponsored by a non-profit corporation for an eligible beneficiary with a disability that substantially limits one or more major life activities whether the impairment is congenital or acquired by accident, injury.

205

age. or disease.

prohibit expenditures that will result in the indi-

The Georgia Community Trust, the only com-

vidual with the disability being disqualified from

munity trust in the State. is founded and sponsored by Ridgeview Institute, Inc. The Mental Health Association of Metropolitan Atlanta and

receiving public assistance. Due to the complicated nature of the various regulations, the expertise offered by the ltust distinguishes it from the

o

the Mental Health Association of Georgia are

individual special needs trust created in the past.

supporting sponsor organizations. Robert M.

Fink. founder and CEO of Ridgeview Institute

Individual Accounts

serves as executive director of the trust without

For investment and management purposes, the

compensation.

Georgia Community ltust is considered one trust

'fund. Individual beneficiaries have separate ac-

7rust BeTu!ftts

counts to which net income is credited in propor-

. The Trust supplements public assistance. It is ' tion to each beneficiary's contribution. These

not intended to be the principal means of support , ,proportions change depending on expenditures

for the person with a disability. Instead, it is

aIIocated to individual beneficiaries.

intended to supplement basic support programs to

which the person with a disability may be en- '

Estate Planning with the trust

titled. Examples include Medicaid, Supplem~ntal

Each donor creating a trust account appoints a

Security Income (551), and certain benefits

co-trustee, usually a family member, to 'advocate

available through the State of Georgia. '

for the beneficiary with a disability and request

It provides continuity. The Trust is an ongo- , funds to cover particular expenses.

ing entity, not affected by the health or weII-being

of anyone individual. Even if parents have

FeesJor enrollment

someone else to depend on, another child for

Though not for profit. the ltust is intended to

example, who is willing to administer a trust for a eventuaIIy be self-supporting, with operating

brother or sister with a disability, parents worry about what will happen if the brother or sister-predeceases the child with a disability, or moves, or for any other reason can no longer administer

expenses met through fees. Until the fees are sufficient to fund the operating expenses, Ridgeview Institute wiII contribute the necessary funds. Fees for establishing and maintaining a

o

the trust.

trust account are:

FinanciaIIy, the Trust may be more affordable

Initial enrollment fee: a one-time $300 fee paid

than most individually managed bank trusts. To

by the person who will transfer assets to the Trust.

be cost effective, most bank trusts must be

Consultation fee: a $400 fee to cover consulta-

'relatively large, generaIIy starting at around

tion to the co-trustee. This fee is first charged one

$100,000. The fee charged'by the Trust is usuaIIy year after assets are transferred to the ltust and is

substantially less than that charged by banks for

charged annuaIIy against each beneficiary's ac- '

an individuaIIy managed trust. Using the ltust,

count.

families. who might otherwise be unable to do so

because of the limited amount of funds they can

How Expenses are Paid

commit to a trust, gain the experience and profes-

The Expenditure Committee of the Trustees

sional investment advice of the ltust's investment reviews all requests to ensure that only expendi-

advisor, '.C. Bradford & Co.

tures permitted by the various public assistance

The Trust preserves the right of the individual programs are authorized by the Georgia Commu-

with a disability to public assistance since the

nity Trust. Income and principal may only be used

assets in the Trust are not considered in applying

to provide non-eash benefits for special needs of

the income and resource tests for public assis-

the person with a disability beyond the basic

\ tance.

support offered by Medicaid and Supplemental

The Trust preserves the family assets for

Security Income (551). When these requirements

other members of the family. 5ince the assets may are met, the person with a disability retains his/her

not be used for the support of the individual with a disability, the assets may not be exhausted during the lifetime of the individual and can be

o eligibility for public assistance. If you are interested in setting up a ltust account, or if you would like more information about '

transferred to other family members.

the Georgia Community Trust, contact Robert M.

The expenditure committee of the Trust will

Fink. Executive Director; Ridgeview Institute. 3995

206



South Cobb Drive. Smyrna. GA 30080. Telephone: (770) 431-7070. Fax: (770) 431-7072. E-mail: rfink@mindspring.com .
Other resources on financial planning include: -Financial Security for Families with Special
Needs, a publication available free of charge through Exceptional Parent magazine & Prudentiallnsurance Company of America. Contact Exceptional Parent magazine at 555
Kinderkamack Rd .. Oradell. NJ 07649-1517.
Telephone (800) 372-7368. - Russell. M., Fcc. R.. Grant, A. & Joseph S.
PlanningJor the Future: Providing a Meaning Life Jar a Child with a Disability qfter Your Death (4 th cd. Rev. 1996) Evanston. IL: American Publishing Company. Available through the Exceptional Parent Library at (800) 535-1910.
Web Site: National Institute on Life Planning for Persons with Disabilities. Interactive Web site where families can ask questions of experts. Http://sonic.netlniIp.
Roger A. St.Lifer. MAce, LUTCF. Account representative for MetLife. Estate analysis for families with special needs children. 11 17 Perimeter Center West. Atlanta. GA 30038. (770) 396-6572 ext 1031. (770) 396-6574 Fax
Merill Lynch: Merrill LYnch has the financial specialists and resources to help you develop arid carry out your financial plan. The Financial Foundation Report allows you to assess your current financial situation and, with the help of your Merrill Lynch Financial Consultant. establish priorities and implement appropriate strategies to help you meet your financial objectives. "Families of Children/Loved Ones With Disabilities Program" Get More Information: 1-800-MERRILL (Ext. 4528) http://www.plan.mI.com/specialneeds/


207

Legal Assistance*
o

For free legal assistance for those with little income:
Atlanta Legal Aid
(Administrative Q/fice) 151 Spring St., N.W. Atlanta, GA 30303-2097 (404) 524-5811
(Clayton) 1000 Main St. Forest Park, GA 30298 (404) 366-051 7 (404) 366-0586
(Cobb) 32 Waddell St. Marrietta, GA 30090 (404) 528-2565
(Dekalb and Gwinnett) 246 Sycamore St., Suite 120 Decatur, GA 30030-5434 (404) 377-0701
(Fulton) 151 Spring St. Northwest Atlanta, GA 30303-2097 (404) 524-5811

Georgia Legal services
(Administrative Qffice) 1100 Spring St., NW. Suite 2oo-A . Atlanta, GA 30309 (404) 206-5175 . 1-(800) 255-0056
(Baker. Ben Hill Calhoun, Clay. . Crisp, Decatur, Dooly. Dougherty. Ear{y, Grady. Miller, Mitchell, Quitman, Randolph. Seminole. Terrell 1Umer, Wl1cox and Worth) 111 West Oglethorpe Blvd Albany, GA 31701 (912) 430-4261 1-(800) 735-4271 (clients only)
(Burke, Columbia, Glascock, Jdl'erson, Jenkins, Lincoln, . McDz!fJie, Richmond. Screven, Taliqferro, Wa"en, Washington and Wilkes) 811 Telfair St., Suite 202 Augusta, GA 30901 (706) 721-2327 1-(800) 248-6697 (clients only)
(Camden, G{ynn and Mdntosh) 1311 Union St. Brunswick, GA 31520 (912) 264-7301 1-(800) 498-9508. (clients only)
(Chattahoochee, Harris, Lee, Macon, Manon, Meriwether; Muscogee, Pike, Schley. Stewart, Sumter, Talbot, Taylor, 'Troup, Upson and Webster) 1214 First Ave. Columbus, GA 31902 (706) 649-7493 1-(800) 533-3140 (clients only)

(Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, Mu"ay. Walker and Whirfield) 107 King St. Dalton, GA 30720-2004 (706) 272-2310 1-(800) 822-5391 (clients only)

(Bartow, Carroll Coweta, Douglas,

Fayette, Floyd. Gordon. Greene,

Haralson, Heard. Henry. Morgan.

Newton. Paulding, Polk, Rockdale.

Spalding and Walton)

.

1100 Spring St. N.W.

Suite 2oo-B

Atlanta, GA 30309

(404) 894-7707

1-(800) 822-5391 (clients only)

o

D.. Watson, Sidney 1999. A Georgia Advocates Guide to Health Care. funded by Health Law Section of thc Statc Bar of Gcorgia and

Mcrcer university Law School.

.

. 208



(Bryan, Bulloch, Candler; Chatham, {/fingham, Emanuel Evans, Liberty, Long, Tatmall and 1bombs) 10 Whitaker St., 2nd Floor Savannah, GA 31401
(912) 651-2180 1-(888) 220-8399 (clients only)

(Berrien, Brooks, Colquitt, Cook,

Echols, Irwin, Lanier; Lowndes,

Thomas and 1Jfton)

114 North Toombs St.

Valdosta. GA 31601

(912) 333-5232

,

1-(800) 546-5232 (clients only)

(Appling. Atkinson. Baron, Brantlt:Y, Charlton, Clinch. C<jfee.
JdfDavis. Pierce, Ware and
Wayne) 1057 Grove Ave. Waycross, GA 31501
, (912) 285-6181
1-(800) 498-9508 (clients only)

(All counties) Migrant Fann Workers Project 150 South Ridge Ave. lUton, GA 31194
(912) 386-3566 1-(800) 537- 7496 (clients only)

Landlord-Thnant Housing Helpline (404) 206-5343 (in Atlanta) 1-(800) 369-4706

Free legal services for those with physical and mental disability:
(statewide) Georgia Advocacy Office 100 Crescent Centre Parkway Suite 520 Thcker, GA 30084
1-800-531 2329 (404) 885-1234 VrrIY (770) 414-2948 Fax e-mail: olwyn@earthlink.net


209

Sports Activities for _

Individuals with Disabilities

o

Spans activities provide more than just physical activity and recreation. Participation in sports for people with disabilities can provide psychological' and physical' benefits. The number of people with disabilities engaging in sports and other physical activities has increased dramatically in the past ten years because of the greater availability of adaptive and assistive sports equipment. Many .state, national and international associations have formed and organized competitions are now plentiful.
ABLEDATA has a web site at http:// www.abledat.Coin which has links to sites which list adaptative equipment suppliers for swimming. pool accessories. swim wear, amphibious wheelchairs. \yater skiing, boating, snow skiing. standing skiing. outrigger ski equipment. ski stabilizers. ski totes. ski prostheses and aids. sit skiing. sled skiing. mono-skiing. ice skating, sledge hockey. adaptive clothing for all seasons. wheelchair covers. tire cleaners. tire chains for wheelchairs. and much more. Linked sites also provide information about where to go for adapted sports instruction and experience.
Those who do not have access to the Web can write to ABLEDATA. 8401 Colesville Road. Suite 200, Silver Spring MD 20910. Phone (800) 2270216 or {30 1) 608-8912 TrY. Fax: (301) 6088958. -
Another Web Site for sports enthusiasts with disabilities that has links to many other sites including organizations for wheelchair tennis, basketball. softball for the deaf. volley ball and therapeutic horseback riding. is the Disabled Sports USA site at http://Www.dsusa.org/ -dsllsa/ot hef\\'3. hunl.
The National Ability Center is located in the mountains of Park City. Utah. This non-profit Center has been integrating and including people with disabilities in adaptive recreational activities

since 1985. The center believes in helping indi-

viduals with disabilities develop lifetime skills by

providing quality. affordable sports. as.well as

recreational services and programs to individuals

with disabilities and their families. Beginning with

offering adaptive alpine skiing. today the Center.

which is part of a full-fledged mountain resort. also

offers other adaptive recreation programs includ-

ing: horseback riding. swimming, water skiing, and

tennis. and outdoor education trips which involve

activities such as white water rafting. Although the

Center is nonprofit. there are program fees. No one.

however. has ever been turned away due to their

financial situation and scholarships are available.

For more information contact: The National Ability

Center, P.O. Box 682799. Park City, Utah 840682799; telephone (435) 649-3991; fax: (435) 658-

0

33992; Web site: www.nationalabilitycenter.org.

Sports publications for athletes with disabilities have also proliferated. Following is a sample listing of some ofthese publications.

Disabled Outdoor Magazine. 5223 South Lorel

Avenue. Chicago. IL 60638. (312) 284- 2206.

Articles. product descriptions. accessible resort

listings. and personal accounts perta:ining to

outdoor activities including fishing. hunting.

boating and camping. Quarterly

Handicapped Sport Report, National Handicapped Sports. 1145 19th Street NW. Suite 717.

Washington. DC 20036. Information about organi-' .

zational activities such as ski and fitness programs.

scheduled events and highlights. news from the

organization's chapters.

Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical

Therapy. Dr. Gary L. Smidt. The University of

Iowa. S-114. Westlawn. Iowa City. fA 522241.

Research studies. case studies. commentaries. abstracts of current literature, book reviews, new

0

products and opportunities for training.

Palaestra. Challenge Publications. Ltd., P.O.

Box 508. Macomb. IL 61455. (309) 833-1902.

210



Anicles on spons, recreation, and physical education for people with physical or developmental disabilities. Research applications, spons nutri-, tiori, audiovisual and book reviews, new products, personal training profiles, and a calendar of events.
Special Recreation Digest, 362 Koser Avenue. Iowa City, IA 52246-3039. (310) 337- 7578. Information on programs, services, publications, meetings, materials and special recreation needs of people with disabilities. Quanerly.
New Mobility, P.O. Box 4162, Boulder, CO 80306. (800) 338-5412. Articles and features, spons news and information about new books and upcoming events. Quanerly.
Sports 'n' Spokes. Paralyzed Veterans of America. 5201 Nonh 19th Avenue, Suite Ill, Phoenix, AZ 85015. (602) 246-9426. Wheelchair competitive spons and recreation. Bimonthly.
Vision, USABA. 33 N. Institute Street, Suite 105, Colorado Springs, CO 80903. (719) 6300422. News. announcements. and activities of the United States Association for Blind Athletes (USABA). Repons on local. regional, national, and , international spons events and information for person with visual impairments. Quarterly.
Mainstream Magazine of the Able-Disabled is an online magazine that carries news. advocacy and lifestyle articles for people with disabilities which can be accessed at http://www.mainstream-mag.com/


211

Tax Exemptions for

.

Individuals with Disabilities

o

Department of Revenue
The Georgia Income Tclx Exemption for Disabled Persons allows persons with disabilities to exempt a portion of their retirement income from state income taxation in Georgia. Up to $12,000 of retirement income received by peope with disabilities is exempt from state income taxation.

Eligibility Criteria: Persons who are totally and permanently disabled who have no gainful em-f ployment; and they are classified as residents of Georgia for purposes of state income taxation. The exemption continues as long as the recipie~t resides in Georgia.

Call or wnteJor.further ilJlormation at: Georgia Income Tc1x Exemption for Disabled Persons

o

Attn: Income 'nix Division, ltinity-Washington

Bldg., Room 711

270 Washington Street, SW

Atlanta, GA 30334

Phone: (404) 565-4188

o
212

Telecommunications




Georgia Relay Service The Georgia Relay Service (GRS) connects
people who are deaf, deaf-blind, hard-of-hearing. hearing. and speech-disabled. It relays conversations between people who use text telephones . (TIYs) or telebraille (TB) and people who use standard telephones. 24 hours a day, every day. There is no charge to access GRS. It is provided under contract with the state of Georgia Public Service Commission by AT&T.
How the relCO'service works. A person who is deaf. hard-of-hearing or with a speech disability types his or her conversation using a TIY. A person who is deaf-blind may use either a TIY or TB. The message is relayed to a Communications Assistant (CA) who reads it to the hearing person at t,he other end word for word. The CA then relays the hearing person's .exact spoken words by typing them back to the lTV user. Each call is handled in strict confidence.
When a person calls the Relay Center using the TIY telephone number. the system answers the call. There is no CA on the line until the lTV user types in the number. Once this is done. the system will initiate the dialing process. So if a person types the number, the call will be set up and handled more quickly.
Also available is Voice Carryover (VCO) for a 'person who is deaf or hard-of-hearing (TIY user) who wants to speak instead of type. The person who is deaf or hard-of-hearing talks directly into the phone. The CA types the hearing person's response to the TIY user.
Hearing carryover (HCO) is for a person with a speech disability who prefers to listen rather than read. The person types his or her part of the conversation for the CA to read to the standard telephone user.
Relay service numbers: 1-800-255-0056 TIYcalls 1-800-i55-0135 voice calls 770-729-5000 relay customer service and GRS literature

1elecommunication DistributionProgram More than 30 states nationwide have telecom-
munication distribution programs that provide equipment free or at low-cost to qualified invididuals with hearing and/or speech disabilities, enabling more equitible telephone communication. The equipment may include text telephones (TIYs). volume controlled telephone handsets. and visual ring signals.
Georgia does not presently have a telecommunication distribution program but advocates are encouraging a program in the near future. For an update on this progress. contact the Georgia Council for the Hearing Impaired. 4151 Memorial Drive. Suite 103-B. Decatur. GA 30032; (404) 292-5312; (800) 541-0710 toll free.

213

Travel Opportunities for-

Individuals with Disabilities

r

-

o

Today, more people with disabilities are able to enjoy the fun and excitement of travel. -Of the approximately 54 million people with disabilities in the United States, at least 36 million are actual or potential travelers. To respond to this significant market, travel service p~oviders are expanding the variety of accessible services. Here are a sample of some of the services that are available.
Amtrak Amtrak's toll-free telephone number for reser-
vations and information is 800- USA-RAIL (800872-7245). This number is available 24 hours a day, 'seven days a week. For questions regarding accessible services that cannot be answered by a Reservation Sales Agent, please ask to be transferred to a Customer Service Agent.
By 1TY: Amtrak's toll-free number for text telephones (TOD/TIY) is 800-523-6590 and is available from 5 a.m. to 1 a.m. Eastern time, seven days a week.
Amtrak's Internet address is www.amtrak.com and this site provides travel, fare and schedule information and also offers the opportunity to make travel reservations that do not require any notations or instructions in the reservation. If assistance is required or an accommodation for a disability is reqUired, please call Amtrak's toll-free number rather than use the Internet booking system. This process allows Amtrak to document the assistance a person needs in the reservation record and to notify the appropriate stations and train personnel. In order to ensure an accessible space is available. reserVations must be made for o an accessible bedroom. transfer seat or wheelchair space - even when traveling on an unreserved train.
There are a limited number of accessible spaces available on each train; make reservations early. Because of the limited number of accessible bedroom spaces, up until 14 days prior to the departure of each train from its origin a'ty, accessible bedroom accommodations can be reserved only by passengers who need them because of

mobility impairments. Those passengers will be

required to certify their need for these accommo-

dations. After this period, accessible bedrooms are

available on a first-come, first-served basis if all

other Deluxe and Family bedrooms have been

booked.

- Advance requests for seating near accessible

restrooms and lower-level seating in bi-Ievel trains

may also be made. Although Amtrak does not

offer assigned seating, they will attempt to accom-

modate these request on a first-requested, flrst-

served basis. Since space is limited, make reserva-

tions as early as possible to ensure that equipment

and personnel are prepared to meet the traveler's

needs.

o Discounts: Amtrak offers a discount for passen-
gers with disabilities. To receive the discount, provide written documentation of disability at the _

ticket counter and when boarding the train. lYPes

of acceptable documentation are an identification

card that many transit systems provide, a mem-

o bership card for a disability organization or a letter

from a doctor. Please note that we do not combine

this discount with other discounts that might be

available. For example, one could not receive both

a student and a disability discount.

l1cketing. A person may pay for the ticket with

a credit card at the time reservations are made and

pick up the ticket when he/she arrives at the

station. A ticket can be mailed if purchased at

least one week bifore departure using a credit card

on our toll-free phone number. nckets which

cannot be purchased before boarding because of a

disability may be paid for on the train. The on-

board penalty is waived in this case, so there is ho

additional charge for this service.

Station and Train Accessibility. Most Amtrak

stations in major cities are accessible as are many

other staffed stations. Check accessibility of the

station with an Amtrak Reservations sales Agent - or refer to an Amtrak TImetable. A comprehensive list should be available through the Office of

o

Amtrak Access and on the Amtrak Web site. If

assistance is required, please make requests in

214



advance so personnel will be prepared to provide assistance. Courtesy wheelchairs and wheelchair lifts are available at most staffed stations.
Boarding and Detraining. Assistance a person may need wiII depend on station facilities and the type of train being used. Some stations use a bridge plate to cover the gap between platform and car if they have a high platform. Other stations have low-level platforms or station lifts. The weight limit for lifts is 600 Ib/273 kg (occupied wheelchair). Some trains carry a wheelchair ramp on board.
All Amtrak trains have at least one coach car with accessible seating and an accessible restroom. Overnight trains offer accessible seating and restrooms .in at least one coach car and an accessible bedroom in each sleeping car. Accessible seating includes space for a passenger using a wheelchair. a transfer seat and storage for the wheelchair. Amtrak trains can accommodate most wheelchairs in use today, provided they meet the ADA definition of a "common" wheelchair - up to 30 inches wide by 48 inches long (76 by 122 cm.), both manually operated and battery powered. For passengers who do not require their wheelchairs while on the train. Amtrak's baggage service will accept manual and battery-operated wheelchairs.
Important note: Baggage service for wheelchairs is available only if boarding and detraining stations provide baggage service and if those stations are equipped with the following accommodations:
high level platforms low-level platforms if the station has either a forklift or a wheelchair lift low-level platforms if the station is served by Superliner coach-baggage cars, allowing the use of an on-board ramp through the baggage door. Be sure to ask the agent what type qfboarding is aval1able at departure and destination stations. For more information about accommodations provided by Amtrak about the accessibility of their
trains and stations. ask for the brochure Acces-s
Amtrak or to request information in alternate formats of Braille, large print, audio tape and diskette (WordPerfect 5.1 and ASCII), you may call toll free 1-877-268-7252 or mail a request to: Office of Amtrak Access -2W, 60 Massachusetts Avenue, NE, Washington, D.C. 20002.
Greyhound Lines, Inc. ADA Assistance (800) 752-4841 mD(800) 345-3109

Greyhound provides individualized accommodations to meet the needs of people with disabilities. Please call 3 - 4 days prior to time of departure to talk with someone in the ADA Assistance Office about a person's particular needs. Greyhound also offers assistance to pay for a ticket for a traveling companion to assist someone with needs that cannot be met by Greyhound employees. Each terminal o( embarkation makes its own determination about the need for a traveling companion and a one way ticket for the companion is issued. For a return.trip, the determination would have to made again at the terminal where the return leg of the trip originates and another ticket issued for the traveling companion.
Society for the Advancement of Transportation for the Handicapped (SAm)
SAm has actively represented travelers with disabilities since 1975 with the goal of promoting awareness, respect and accessibility for people with disabilities and mature travelers and employment for people with disabilities in the tourism industry. SAm advocacy activities bore fruit in the access section of the Americans With Disabilities Act passed by Congress in 1990.
SAm's web site address is http:// wWw.sath.orglintro.html.This site presents extensive menus to obtain information on a variety of travel options and links to other travel Web sites for people with disabilities.
Following are two excerpts from the SAm site for those who may not have access to the Internet.
"HOW TO TRAVEL BY AIR" "Today travel by air in the United States is covered by the Air Carriers Access Act of 1986 and the subsequent regulations published in March 1990. This law provides that no air carrier may discriminate against any otherwise qualified individual with a disability by reason of such disability in the provision of air transportation. For information about these regulations and also changes resulting from the Americans With Disabilities Act, the best source is a 33 page booklet from the Department of Transportation entitled New HorizonsJorthe Air 1Taveler With a Disabl1ity. ~opics include accessibility of airports and aircraft. requirements for advance notice, attendants. and medical certificates; handling of mobility aids and assistive devices; and much more, including how to file a complaint. Another
useful federal publication is Acces-s 1rave/: Air-
ports (#580Y). which provides details on handicapped facilities and services at 533 airports

215

worldwide. These booklets are available free from

S. James, Consumer Information Center 2-D, P.O.

Box 100, Pueblo, CO 81002. A$1.00 service fee is

charged for up to 25 free booklets.

"navelers with disabilities can therefore expect

to travel by air within the United States without

unnece~sary restriction. The same law applies to

all U.S. carriers on international flights. lATA, the

International Air Transport Assoa"ation, also

carries disabled passengers under similar rules,

with one or two exceptions, since July 1994. For a

copy of the specific lATA rules, contact, lATA

Publications Agent, 2000 Peel St., Montreal.

.Quebec H3A 2R4, Canada or other lATA offices

outside North America.

"So long as a person's disability is stable and

not liable to deteriorate during travel (e.g. paraple-

gia, quadriplegia, post-polio, diabetes, mental

disability, etc.), a person can expect to be treated

like any other passenger with special needs (e.g.

those with special dietary requirements). Ask your

travel agent to notify the airlines that the person

will travel with, under the code SSR (Special

,Service Request) or 051 (Other Service Informa-

tion) , of his/her status and the special services he/

she will need. This must be done at least 48 hours

prior to departure.

"In the event of a problem with airport or in

flight personnel, a person should require them to'

conract the Complaints Resolution Qfficer (CRO),

who by law must always be available and willing

to deal with the person's grievance. They cannot'

refuse. Passengers who require oxygen when

traveling are subject to special safety regulations

and require a doctor's prescription with specific'

information. A person may be required to pay for

the provision of equipment and cannot use his/her

own, which must be empty and stored in the

baggage compartment (carried free of charge).

See also the specific information sheet for your

disability.

'

Additional Resources "A growing number of American airlines publish travel information for passengers with disabilities. Amen'ca West Airlines has a six page booklet entitled, l1psJor Passengers With Spedal Needs. For a free copy, caU (800) 235-9292 or (800) 526-8077 (TOO). Northwest Airlines offers a 13-page brochure entitled Air Travel For People With Disabilities. It is available in a standard print format, as weU as in Braille with large print and on audio cassette with Braille labeling. For free copies, call (800) 358-3100. American airports are

also producing booklets about their facilities and
0 services for handicapped travelers. Airports
currently offering such guides includ.e the Phoen'ix Sky Harbor Airport, Logan Airport if} Boston, and Mccarran International Airport in Las Vegas.", ' ,

SATII's Web site also contains detailed informa-

tion on the following topics:

J

How to navel by Air with a Wheelchair .

navel Information for People Who are Blind

or Who Have a Sight Impairment .

Travel Information for People Who Are Deaf or

Who Have a Hearing Impairment

. Travel Information for. People Who Have a

Speech Impairment

Travel'Companions International, Inc. Web address http://www.3wave.com/compan-
ions/summary.shtml Subtitled safe Passage to Freedom/World Wide,
,Companion Services for Very Special People Who Don't Want to navel Alone. All requests for ,companionship are considered without prejudice against disability or destination, length of stay, or purpose of travel- business or pleasure - world-
0 wide. Most clients are seniors or have disabilities.
Most Companions are educators, one is a registered nurse. Advance planning can secu're a companion who signs ASL or speakS anyone of a number of foreign languages. Visits abroad are coordinated with your travel agent or arranged by Travel Companions International, Inc. Consultations areftee.
call (304) 697-8304. Leave a messageincluding a time that someone can be reached by phone. Call or write fora brochure to: 16250 Large Hollow Road, Abingdon, VA 24240.

A,ccess-Able Travel Source Web Address http://www.access-able.com/
about.html Email: carol@access-able.com. phone 303-232-
2979, Fax 303-239-8486. Bill and Carol Randall have created a place to
store information for people with disabilities to use. Access-Able navel Source is dedicated to aiding travelers with disabilities and the mature traveler. Offering practical information that people with disabilities need togo across town or around the world, their data base has not only accessible accommodations, but everything to make a trip' fun and exciting. Information is available abom scuba diving for people with all types of disabilities, accessible safaris, sailing, raft trips and even

0,

216



a place where you can learn to sky sail. Informa-

tion for hands-on attractions is included for

people who are blind or have visual impairments.

Seashore attractions are included that have beach

wheel chairs. Data is divided into the foIlowing

categories and sub categories:

1tansportation - Van rentals, and the public

or private sectors.

'

Accommodations - Detailed information

about each place.

Attractions - Resorts, theme parks, museums.

National Parks in USA and Canada.

Adventures - These aren't for everyone, not

imitations. but the real thing!

1tavel Resources - Access guides for cities,

states/provinces's. and countries.

Equipment rental. repair and medical - Self

explanatory!

Sub-categories include:

1tavel Agents - Where to find out who can

help plan a trip or great tours.

Airports - Accessibility in the are you are

traveling. '

Cruises - Ships. itineraries. cabins in detailed

format.

,

This site also provides two pages of accessible

travel links which run the gamut from Acces-s

Guide to Singapore to Wildemes-s Inquiry and a

full page of Disability Links to a wide variety of

information and products including magazines.

other information sites and more accessibility

information for sites around the world such as

Japan and Italy. For more information. contact at:

Access-Able navel Resource. LLC. P.O. Box 1796.

Wheat Ridge. CO 80034.

The Able Informer This is an online newsletter of resources for
people with disabilities. This resource contains various types of information in addition toa resource page on travel which is entitled: 1tavellnsights: navel Insights Web address is: http://www.sasquatch.com/ableinfo/ Ik_traveI.html#The
Among the resources listed in early 1999 were the following:

. Through the efforts of The Opening Door. Inc., a nonprofit organization, several states and localities have been developing innovative publications to make travel easier for person with mobility, visual. or hearing impairments. These nationally acclaimed guides give extensive

information about the accessibility of lodging, restaurants, attractions, and much more. Travel Guides for Persons With Disabilities at http:// www.wcduke.com/guide.html includes descriptions and ordering information for several of these excellent travel guides for persons with disabilities. "The Virginia 1tavel Guide for Persons with Disabilities is available from the Virginia Tourism Corporation free of charge by calling 800-742-3935, 804-
371-0327 TrY. or email at
VAinfo@vedp.state.va.us. Additional information can be accessed by
visiting their World-Wide Web site: http:// www.virginia.org.
Access New Mexico is a free guide available from the New Mexico Governor's Committee on the Concerns of the Handicapped, 491 Old santa Fe nail. Room 117, Santa Fe. NM 87501 or phone: 305-827-6465.
Alabama has a guide under development. begirming with a pilot publication for Thscaloosa. Contact the nrscaloosa Convention and Visitors Bureau for more information, 800-538-8696 or , 205-391-9200.
Other travel guides having detailed information about accessibility are:
Access North carolina which has data about the accessibility of every attraction in the state. A free copy is available from the Division of Travel and Tourism, Department of Economic and Community Development, Raleigh. NC 27611. Phone 800-VISIT-NC (800-847-4862) or 919-733-4171.
Albuquerque, NM has access information in a chart format. For a free copy of The Art of Accessibility, contact the Albuquerque Convention and Visitor's Bureau. P.O. Box 26866, Albuquerque, NM 87125-6866, Phone 800-733-9918 or 505842-9918:
Easy Access Australia http://home.vicnet.net/ aUI-bruceeaal is Australia's first travel guide for people with disabilities and you can acquire one by Fax: 61 3 9853 9000 or e-mail to Bruceeaa@vicnet.net.au. The cost of the guide is $19.95 plus $10 p&h.
Easy Access to National Parks: The Sierra Club Guide for People With Disabilities is a guide for intrepid travelers with physical limitations, which is carefully researched~ It has practical advice on safe and rewarding visits to 50 American parks with in-depth descriptions of 15 parks as "Best Visits" for their exceptional accessibility. Those people with mobility problems, vision and hearing impairments. seniors, families with young children - ~nyone looking for gentle rewarding

217

hiking and nature-observing opportunities in the U.S. will treasure this resource. Provides information on the region. access, lodging. services. tours. sports opportunities. trails. campgrounds. medical facilities. visitor centers. and more for all 50 national parks. Available for $12.80 on the We~ at Amazon.com
Fodor's Great American Vacations for Travelers with Disabilities (2nd Ed) illustrates the new growth in attitude and construction that is welcoming travelers with disabilities to a more hospitable US. This guide covers 38 locations across the US providing basic guide .information on where to stay, eat. sightsee. play, hike, snorkel. and barhop. plus detailing access information for people with mobility problems. and hearing and vision impairments. Covers the best of America's travel destinations including Boston. Cape Cod. Charleston. Chicago. the Everglades. Gettysburg. the Grand Canyon. The Grand Tetons. Las Vegas, the Lincoln Trail. Los Angeles. the Maine coast. Memphis, Miami. Minneapolis and St. Paul. Nashville. the Natchez Trace, New Orleans, New York City. Niagara Falls. the Outer Banks. Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Philadelphia. Rock Mountain National Park. San Antonio arid Austin, San Diego. San Francisco. Santa Fe and laos, Savannah. Seattle, the Texas Gulf Coast. Walt Disney World. Waikiki and Honolulu. Washington D.C. Williamsburg. Yellowstone and Yosemite. This guidebook is available for $15.60 on the Web at Amazon.com. .
One Step Ahead is an Internet publication done by Evan Kemp Associates. Inc. It is' an excellent resource for persons with disabilities on information to live active. healthy. and independent lives. Contact Editor. 9151 Hampton Overlook. Capitol Heights. MD 20743. Phone 301-324-0112..
Alaska Welcomes You!; Inc. (AWY) Accessible Alaska Adventures at P.O. Box 91333.Anchorage AK 99509-1333. http://www.alaskan.com/ vendorss.welcome.html. Voice ITIY 800-349-6301 [USA only] rest of the world: 907-349-630 I. Email awy@customcpu.com. offers expertise in accessible Alaska cruises and pre- or post-cruise tours in Alaska and in canada. They specialize in accessible Alaska adventures customized for travelers who are disabled and mature. Fee service stans at $20 per itinerary. designed based on your input. Self-Drive Tours stan at $950 per personl double occupancy. Price includes lodging and vehicle. AL1SKA UPDATE AWYs. accessible

newsletter is free. just e-mail. postal mail. or

telephone your name and mailing address. AWY does not sell their mailing list.

0

Accessible Adventures at http://

www.accessibleadventures.com/. P.O. Box 888.

Village Square. RT 100, Waitsfield. VT 05673, toll

free 888-880-0222, Local 802-496-2252. Fax

802-496-4381. e-mail: belliott@madriver.comis a

new charter and tour company based in

Burlington. Vermont. They have a new liFt-

equipped Champion coach (room for six or more

wheelchairs. or 30 seated passengers) which is .

specially designed for tourists, sightseers and

travelers with a wide variety of physical chal-

lenges. Tours are designed for groups. but a few

friends or family may constitute a group. You can

be met at the airport or Amtrak station. This

company works with Vermont Adaptive Ski and

Sport and others. Trips Inc. Special Adventures, 960 E. 19th

Street, Eugene, OR 97403-1320. Phone (BOO)

686- 1013, e-mail trips@tripsinc.com or check out

their home page at wwW.tripsinc.com provides.

travel opportunities to people of various abilities in

a safe, respectful and fun atmosphere.

Staff seek to create an environment that promotes personal and emotional growth, friendship

0

. and learning. 1999 Trips include Disneyland and

Knotts Berry Farm; Reno and Lake Tc$oe; The

Best of Oregon; London, England; Branson,

Missouri and Silver Dollar City; Seattle Washing-

ton and Professional Football, Las Vegas and the

New Star Trek Casino; camping in Central Oregon;

San Diego, california; santa Cruz, California; The

Big Island of Hawaii; Pendleton Round-up; New

Orleans and the Mississippi Queen; Disneyland,
Universal Studios and sea World, Nashville &

Memphis; Disney World. Orlando, Grand Canyon

and Southwest Tour; Costa Rica, Central America;

San Francisco, The Giants and Alcatraz. Trips

range in price from $640 to about $3,500 with

less expensive trips being road trips leaving from

Portland, Oregon without airfare included.

Travel Magazine Resources

Acce5s to 'Travel magaZine

29 Bartlett Lane

DelMar, NY 12054

Phone: 518-439-4146

Open World magazine
Society for the Advancement of navel for the

0.

Handicapped (SAm)

347 Fifth Avenue

New York, NY 10016

218

'.

'.

I

Advocacy and



Support Groups .



Advocacy and Support Groups

INDEX Advocacy and Support Groups are listed alphabeticallY in theJollowing categones.

Blind and Visually Impaired

c:

221 Independent Living

229

Canine Assistance

222 Mental Health

230

Children and Families

223 Specific Disability ,

230

Deaf and Hard of Hearing

224 Supported Employment..

232

General Disability

225 Technology

232

Housing Access

229 ltansportation

232



For an exhaustive listing of national organizations, associations, produet5 and services, see Exceptional Parent MagaZine's yearly Resource Guide. To subscribe, call toll free at (877) 3727368 or look for these resource issues in your local library. Their web address is www.eparent.com. For back issues of the magazine or their resource guide call (800)372-7368. The cost of the resource guide is $12 plus shipping & handling. . For acess to a comprehensive information and
referral service for people with disabilities across the lifespan, contact The SHARE Exchange at
Parent to Parent of Georgia. This system wiIlgive patrons access to information about resources in their local area. See the Parent to Parent entry in this section (or on page 140).
One of the best ways to find out about advocacy, support groups or other resources and to get disability specific information is to use the Internet. You do not have to own a ~omputer to gain access to the Internet. Almost every public library in Georgia has computers with internet access and they also have support personnel to help you learn how to use this technology. There are literally hundreds of web sites with information about specific disabilities, information about disability topics and issues, and sites which sell disability related products and services. There are lots of Web sites listed in this Guide. Three of the honest Web sires on advocacy issues are: initiative2000.org, accessiblesociety.org and ar!anra.arch.gatech.edu/ddinsitel

Blind and Visually Impaired
American Association for the Blind-Southeast Frances Mary D'Andrea, Director 100 Peachtree Street, Suite 620 Atlanta GA, 30303 (404) 525-2303 E-mail: atlanta@afb.net Web: www. afb.org
Athens Council of the Blind Peggy Chavis 526 Fourth Street Athens, GA 30601 (706) 548-7436
Blind and Low VISion services of North Georgia Sandra Pugh Employment and 1taining Program 3830 South Cobb Drive, Suite 125 Smyrna, GA 30080 (170) 432-7280
Low vision evaluation, orientation and mobility, daily liVing skills, computer access for the blind and Visually impaired. Sliding scale for fees based on income.
center for the VISually Impaired, BEGIN Program Anne McComiskey, Program Director Memir Lerch, Counselor 763 Peachtree Street, NE Atlanta. GA 30308 404/875-9011; 404/607-0062 Fax
BEGIN (Babies Early Growth Intervention Network) is a family education and support program administered by Center for the Visually Impaired. It is designed to prOVide information, emotional support and guidance for parents, and to provide growth and stimulating activities to their Visually impaired child. BEGIN provides periodic home visits,. assessments of functional vision growth,

221

vision stimulation activities. preschool classes, activities for parents and child and parent support meetings.
Georgia Association Of Deaf-Blind PO Box 450343 Atlanta GA 31145-9998 Mark Gasaway. President. 1-800-255-0135 GA Relay first or Dial Direct (770) 270-1537 TIY e-mail: gasaway2@aol.com
Provides information. advocacy, resources, education through workshops. social recreational opportunities and leadership training to deaf-blind persons.
Georgia Council of the Blind - Athens Dorothy Jones. Secretary 106 James Rd Athens GA 30606 (706) 552-0434
Advocate and support people with visual impairment and blindess.
Georgia Lions lighthouSe Lisa M. Bassett, M.D. Executive Director 1775 Clairmont Road Decatur, GA 30033 404/325-3630;800/718-7438;404/636-5549 Fax
Provides eye glasses and hearing aids for people with severe financial needs. Provides eye exams and pays for eye surgery when no insurance is available. Occasionally purchasesUl AT (such as CCTv, Thlking Computers and Magnifiers) for low-vision persons.
National Federation of the Blind, Georgia Affiliate Curtis Chong, Committee on Assistive 'Iechnology P.O. Box 9025 Savannah, GA 34412 912/927-8090
Provides information on low interest loans to as~ist . people with blindness with the purchaSe of assistive technology including computers, screen reading hardware and software, electronic notetakers, braille embossers, refreshable braille devices and speech synthesizers. The loans are for one to four years, under $3,000 with an interest rate of 3% from the NFB.
The American Foundation of the Blind (AFB) Attn: SCholarship Committee 11 Penn Plaza, Suite 300 New York City, NY 10001 212/502-7661; 212/502-7771 Fax
The American Foundation of the Blind provides eight student scholarship grants awarded to individuals who are Visually impaired and/or legally blind which are awarded each year. The areas of studies include the field of rehabilitation and/or education. religion. music. literature or other areas. Eligibility criteria varies.
Foundation for the Advancement of the Blind, Inc. David E. Weddle 4058 More Street . Los Angeles. CA 90066 310/301-0344 .

The foundation provides funds for any unmet needs to persons who are blind or have a visual impairment. It can help applicants obtainassistive devices. It focuses on equipment that will be used in employment or education. but will consider any unmet equipment need. There are no stated dollar limits to awards. Full or partial funding can be prOVided as well as loans.

o

Pearle VISion Foundation Thina Parasiliti, Administrator 2534 Royal Lane Dallas, TX 75229 972/277-5993
This foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of optimum lifetime vision. The foundation awards are given to individuals who demonstrate financial hardship and are in need of vision care.

Prevent Blindness-Georgia Jenny Pomeroy. Executive Director 455 East Paces Ferry Road, Suite 222 Atlanta. GA 30305 . 404/266-007; 404/266-0860 Fax
To prevent blindness and preserve sight through educational support, eye scr~ning and support services using support groups and preschool vision screening programs with a focus on senior citizens. African-Americans. indigent J>ersons and children.

Recordings for the Blind and Dyslexic 20 Roszel Road Princeton. NJ 08540 6091452-0606; 609/987-8116 Fax Book Orders: 800/221-4792 Website: www.rfbd.org
Lends textbooks recorded on 4-track tapes (special tape players required) for all academic levels.- from kindergarten to graduate school- andin most subject areas. Also provides non-profit sale of books recorded on computer disk (E-text), including computer manuals and reference books.
There are two membership options - 'Institutional and Individual. SChools and agencies may purchase a Institutional Membership to serve a certain number of students. For Individual Members, there is a one-time $50 application fee and a $25 annual membership fee.
If a textbook has not been recorded, RFB&D will consider recording it upon receipt of two copies of the . book. The copies will be returned.

o

canine Assistance
Atlanta Champions (Chapter of Canine COmpanions for Independence) P.O.. Box 547511 Orlando. FL 32854-7511 407/834-2555
To serve the needs of people with disabilities by prOViding trained service, hearing and social dogs and by prOViding continuing support to ensure the success of the work team.

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222



Southeastern CCI Training center Canine Assistance, Inc. Mary Wofford 3160 Francis Road Alpharetta, GA 30004 770/664-7178; 770/664-7820 Fax
Canine Assistance trains dogs to assist children and adults who have physical disabilities. While seIVice functions are important, the most impressive skill of the CA dogs is social rather tl)an physical in nature. The dogs remove many barriers faced by people with disabilities when trying to gain acceptance in society.
Canine Assistants charges no fee; rather, it relies on the generosity of those who recognize the indepen- . dence, well-being or education of one benefits all.

Children and Families



Earth Angels Becky Roper, Executive Director P.O. Box 508 Murrayville, GA 30564 770/531-0480
Earth Angels is a non-profit agency that prOVides assistance to persons with disabilities who cannot afford or get insurance or other services to assist. Earth Angels assists in the purchase of AT devices such as computers, environmental control and home health care eqUipment. They also assist individuals with housing issues such as rent and cost of transportation services.
FOCUS (Families of Children Under Stress) Lucy Cusick, Executive Director P.O. Box 941445 Atlanta, GA 31141 770/270-5072; 770/270-5072 Fax
A support network for parents of children with disabilities or chronic/terminal illnesses. FOCUS provides support through support meetings, a newsletter, family activities, in-hospital visits and bereavement support. Some financial assistance is available.

Juvenile Diabetes Foundation International John B. Hipp, Executive Director 235 Peachtree Street, NE, Suite 675 Atlanta, GA 30303 404/420-5990; 404/420-5995 Fax
To fund research related to the cause, treatment and cure of diabetes. No direct services are prOVided to individuals with diabetes.



Children's Advocacy center for Banks, Barrow and Jackson Counties (The Tree House) TIna Grubbs P.O. Box 949 Winder, GA 30680 (770) 868-1900
Provides personal support to new families, emotional preparation for parenthood and to increase awareness of available resources.

Children's Hopes and Dreams Foundation Vic Franklin, Founder 280 Route 46 Dover, NJ 07801 973/361-7366
Fulfills dreams of children ages 4-17 with life-threatening illnesses. Families are included. No geographic boundaries. Also has a worldwide pen-pal program that matches children with the same sex and age to other children with an illness, disability or condition. The pen-pal program is in 39 countries and territories and is for children ages 5-17.
Children's Wish Foundation International Jacque Niles, Senior Wish Coordinator 8615 Roswell Road, Suite 301 Atlanta, GA 30350 770/393-9474; 800/323-9474
Fulfills wishes of terminally ill children up to the age of 18 from the United States and Europe.
Children's Wish Foundation of Orlando, Inc. Joel Jones 5600 Diplomat Circle, Suite 150 Orlando, FL 32810 407/629-6621
Grants wishes of children 17 years or younger who have life-threatening illnesses. Serves primarily florida and eastern US. Coordinates groups in England and Canada to bring children to Central Florida. It is a private foundation relying on donation.
Georgia Parent Support Network Sue Smith, Executive Director 620 Peach~ee Street NE, Suite 3OO-E Atlanta, GA 30308 (404) 875-6801 E-mail: gpsn@mindspring.com
Georgia Safety Network 50 Hurt Plaza, Suite 220 Atlanta, GA 30303 (404) 588-3180 FAX (404) 521-0487
A statewide coalition of nonprofit organizations and individuals who advocate sensible, compassionate and effective policies to ensure equitable social and economic security for aU Georgians. Focuses on welfare reform work to assist the state's most vulnerable children and families to lead healthy, productive lives.
Georgians for Children Laurie Iscaro 3901 Maple Drive, Suite 114 Atlanta, GA 30305 (404) 365-8948, (800) 543-7772, Fax (404) 365-9009 e-mail: sharon@georgians.com
A multi-issue legislative and budgetary platform developed by a statewide coalition committed to leading positive change for children and their families. Seeks to improve the collective advocacy efforts among organizations, individuals and the community.

223

- - - - - - - - - - - - - ----- - -

IGds. Inc. john Campbell. President 9300-D Old Keene Mill Road Burke, VA 22015 703/455-5437
Grants unfulfilled wishes to gravely ill children 16 and younger anywhere in US.
Make-A-Wish Foundation of America 100 West Clarendon. Suite 2200 Phoenix, 'AZ 950i3 8001722-WISH
Founded in 1983, this foundation grants special ~'ishes to children under the age of 18 who have terminal illnesses or life-threatening medical conditions. Although most wishes involve special vacations. trips or meeting celebrities, assistive technology can be provided if it is the wish of the child. Average cost of fulfilling a wish is $3,700 with an additional averag~ $1,500 worth of in-kind contributions donated per wish.
March of Dimes - Georgia Chapter Community Services Director #2 Northside 75, Suite 100 . Atlanta. GA 30318 404/350-9800
To improve the health of babies by reducing low birth weight and infant mortality through coalition building with public health education, professional education and community services.'
My Special Friends Carolyn Peacock 1290 Green Street Conyers. GA 30012 (770) 785-9595
Advocacy for children's rights under ADA'- community child care based on parent's income and caters to children with special needs.

Southeast Georgia Office

11 South Mulberry Street

Statesboro, GA 30458 912/489-1904; 800/582-8563

0

Anne Clifton. SE GA Coordinator

Parents in Motion Lawana Shook Meade Housell 78 Mahaffey Street
Fax Jefferson. GA 30549
(706) 367-3694, (706) 367-4169 www.parentsinmotion.org
Support and advocacy for adults with disabilities and for parents of children (of any age) with any type of disability. Offers specialized training for adults and a work site for people with disabilities.

Starlight Foundation 12424 Worship Boulevard, Suite. 1050 Los Angeles, CA 90064 800/274-7827; 310/207-2554 Fax
Grants wishes to critically. chronically or terminally ill children ages 4-18. serves the US. UK, Australia and canada. May request information by mail or leave a message and request a return phone call.

Sunshine Foundation

Megan Murphy. Director

2001 Bridge Street

Philadelphia. PA 19124 215/535-1413; 800/767-1976

0

. Grants wishes to .children ages 3-21 with chronic

diseases, terminal illness or chronic disabilities. There is

a maximum amount that can be funded. Limit one wish

per child. Application must be completed.

Deaf and.Hard of Hearing

Parents Educating Parents and Professionals (PEPP, Inc.) .Linda Shepard. laVerne Bomar, Co-Directors 66'13 East Church St., Suite 100 .
Douglasville. GA 30134 770/577-7771; 770/577-7774 Fax e-mail: peppaC@bellsouth.net Web site: www.peppac.org
We (PEPP) prOVide training and information to families of children and youth (3-21) with disabilities.

Association of Late Deafened Adults Robin TItterington 1741 Lee S1. Decatur. GA 30035 404/284-6862 Fax; 706/289-159611Y e-mail: robinjt@mindspring.com
ALDA prOVides information. suppott and a network of friends for deafened adults. ALDA publishes a newsletter and other items and sponsors a yearly convention.

Parent to Parent of Georgia Cathy Spraetz, Executive Director 2900 Woodcock Boulevard, Suite 240 Atlanta, GA 30341 . 770/451-5484; 800/229-2038; 770/458-4091 Fax
To assist families of children and adults with disabilities to achieve their greatest potential through support
and information. Other locations:
Southwest Georgia Office P.O. Box 71206. '141 N.. Slappy Boulevard Albany, GA 31708-1026
912/438-5600; 800/583-4953
Ann Lipscomb: SW GA Coordinator

Atlanta Black Deaf AdvoCates 8362 Bridgewater Place Riverdale. GA 30296
770/472-7857
Affiliated with the National Black Deaf Association.
Georgia Association of the Deaf Ray Williams 307 Cindy Lane Statesboro, GA 30461 912/764-778911YlFax e-mail: williamser@juno.com

224

o



Advocating for the well-being of the Deaf/hard of hearing community since 1910. GAD is involved in every facet of the lifespan from infants to senior citizens. including the social. cultural. emotional. physical. language. employment, education. mental and psychological impacts of hearing loss on individuals.
Georgia Association of the DeafBlind Mark Gasaway. President PO Box 450343 Atlanta. GA 31145 170/270-1537 TTY; 170/388-9809 Voice e-mail: gasaway2@aol.com
GADB provides education to the public on how to communicate with people who are DeafBlind; promotes advocacy for individuals who are Deatl3lind; provides training for support service providers; and holds, meetings and socials for anyone who wishes to participate and learn about Deaf-Blindness.
GABell PO Box 52293 Atlanta. GA 30355 e-mail: roushhouse@mindspring.com
GABel! is the state chapter of the Alexander Graham Bell Association of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, an international non-profit organization comprised of parents. professionals, individuals with hearing loss and other interested persons. GABel! publishes a newsletter and is committed to broadening the educational. vocational and personal opportunities for people with hearing impairments in Georgia.
Georgia Council for the Hearing Impaired, Inc. Jennifer Whitcomb 4151 Memorial Drive. Suite 103-B Decatur. GA 30032 404/292-5312; 800/541-071 0; 404/299-3642 Fax e-mail: jadvocate@aol.com
The Georgia Council for the Hearing Impaired. Inc. is a non-profit corporation whose mission is to offer a wide range of psycho/social services to enable persons with hearing impairment to maximize their potential. All services are designed to enable persons with hearing impairments to develop independence with dignity and respect.
Georgia Lions Lighthouse (see listing under Blind and Visually Impaired)
Georgia Peach Cochlear Implant Club Richard Bowman. President 2610 Rocky Dr. SW Rocky Face. GA 30740-9094 706/278-1472; 706/278-0003 e-mail: rbowman@alltel.net
A statewide support group for cochlear implant recipients, candidates. their families. and professionals; affiliated with the Cochlear Implant Club International. Sponsors an annual Southeastern regional cochlear implant family retreat. publishes a newsletter. and holds regular educational and social meetings.

Georgia Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf 4151 Memorial Drive, Ste. I11-B Decatur, GA 30032 (404) 299-9500 VrnY, (404) 299-0303 Fax
A non-profit, tax-exempt 501 (c) (3) organization whose purpose is to bridge communications between the deaf. hard of hearing. deaf-blind and hearing communities by ensuring the development of effective utilization of professional interpreters.
Hear Now Joanita Stelter, Public Relations Officer 9745 East Hampden Avenue. Suite 300 Denver. CO 80231-4923 303/695-1797; 800/648-4327; 303/695-7789 Fax Website: www.leisurelan.com-hearnow/ e-mail: Jostelter@aol.com
Hear Now is a national non-profit organization that prOVides assistance to persons with hearing impairments who have limited financial resources. Hear Now raises funds to prOVide hearing aids, cochlear implants to children and adults who are legal U.S. residents.
Self Help for Hard of Hearing People Atlanta Hears SHHH Chapter
Connie Stratigos PO Box 501124 Atlanta. GA 31150 170/992-9707 e-mail: CSI21033@juno.com SHHH-Augusta Group Carrie Welter 505 Henderson Dr. Augusta, GA 30909 706/738-2796 e-mail: welter@csranet.com SHHH-Rome Ron Vickery 404 Benton Dr. Rome, GA 30165 706/802-1761 e-mail: ron-vickery@USA.net Website: http://members.tripod.coml-GACracker/
Chapters.htm A non-profit educational organization dedicated to the well-being of people of all ages and communication styles who do not hear well. SHHH emphasizes education. advoca~ and self-help; it is the largest international consumer organization of its kind.
.General Disability
AAMR - Georgia Chapter Janet P. Deal 440 Winn Way. P.O. Box 1648 Decatur. GA 30031
State chapter of National Association for People with mental retardation. their families and advocates.

225

Advocacy Alliance Catherine Stefanavage, Regional Director 675 Clearwater Place. Lawrenceville, GA 30044 (770) 995-0420, Fax (770) 237-9998
AID Atlanta 1438 W. Peachtree St. NW, Ste. 100 Atlanta, GA 30309 (404) 872-0600
Albany ARC Annette Bowling, Director P.O. Box 71026 Albany, GA 31707-0018 (912) 888-6352, Fax (912) 438-7416.
Appalachian Community Enterprises (ACE) Grace Fricks, Director Cleveland, Georgia 30528 (706) 348-6609, Fax (706) 219-4976
A non-profit organization, provides technical assistance arid develops community support to further the partnership of hurnan services with citizens of Northeast Georgia.
Atlanta Alliance on Developmental Disabilities 1687 Thllie Circle, NE, Suite 110 Atlanta, GA 30329 404/321-0877; 404/320-6663 Fax
Atlanta Alliance on Developmental Disabilities (AADD) advocates on the behalf of persons with mental retardation" and developmental disabilities and their families. AADD focuses on advocacy for the best possible quality of life, increased presence and participation in the community and the prevention of mental retardation and other birth defects. AADD provides both community education "and direct services.
Atlanta Alliance on Developmental Disabilities 828 West Peachtree Street, NW, Suite 304 Atlanta, GA 30308-1 146 404/881-9777 ext.207; 404/881-9777 Fax e-mail: Gfs@aadd.org Website: www.aadd.org
Georgia Family Support Program prOVides services to persons with developmental disabilities and their families so their family members with developmental disabilities can remain in the community and participate fully. Services include outreach services, supported employment, mental retardation waiver services (MRWP) and recreation services.
Atlanta Citizen Advocacy, Inc. 1020 Dekalb Avenue, Suite 12 Atlanta. GA 30307 (404) 523-8849
center Directors Association of Georgia Phillip Jay, President P.O. Box 436 Fitzgerald, GA 31750 (912) 426-5205, Fax (912) 426-5208

Chatham ARC 121 1 Eisenhower Drive Savannah. Ga 31406 (PO Box 13622)

Citizen Advocacy Athens-Clarke, Inc. 524 Hill Street Athens, GA 30606-3032 . (706) 549-0063, Fax (706) 549-5656 Provides protection and advocacy for people who have developmental disabilities by initiating and supporting one-on-one citizen advocacy relationships. For Citizen Advocacy groups in other areas of Georgia, call the Georgia Advocacy Office at (404) 885-1234.

Coastal center for Developmental Services Box 13662 Savannah. GA 31416 (912) 352-3050; (912)351-9814

DD InSite

This is an electronic developmental disability

resource for Georgia. Developed by the Center for

Rehabilitation Technology (CRT) at Georgia Tech, DD

InSite makes available on the world wide web a large

and every-grOWing library of resources for people with

"developmental disabilities, their families, professionals."

and others. Thpics include: Assistive technology,

functional and medical disabilities, service providers,

education resources, discussion groups, and other

resources. This web site has links to other prominent

Georgia DD resources. Web Site: http://www.atlanta.arch.gatech.edu/ddinsite/
DeKalb County Developmental Disabilities Council

o

Sonia Kuniansky

440 Winn Way, Suite 326

P.O. Box 987

Decatur, GA 30031

(404) 508-7796, Fax (404) 508-7795

disAbUity LINK Tony Boatright. Executive Director " 755 Commerce Dr., Suite 415 Decatur, GA 30030 404/687-8890,404/687-9192; 800/239-2507 404/687-8298 Fax
A non-profit organization that provides advocacy awareness and information to consumers and their families. to advocate for assistive technology, to build interest and understanding of the need for assistive technology through consumer partidpation and legislation efforts. Advocate and work for the development of a funding source(s) for purchasing assistive technology devices for persons with disabilities.

Easter seals of North" Georgia Donna Davidson, PresidenUCEO 3035 North Druid Hills Road Atlanta, GA 30329 404/633-9609; 404/633-2740 Fax
Georgia Easter Seal Society's mission is to help people with disabilities to achieve independence through rehabilitation services, technical assistance. disabiliry prev~ntion, advocacy and public education.

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226



Easter Seal society of West Georgia Darlene Middleton PO Box 5789; 1115 Brown Ave. Columbus, GA 31906
Extra Special People (ESP) Martha Wyllie Watkinsville, GA (706) 769-9333
Monthly newsletter and program of leisure activities and education for youth with disabilities and their families. Serves 13 counties.
Friends of Disabled Adults and Children 4900 Lewis Road Stone Mountain, GA 30083 770/491-9014; 770/491-0026 Fax Web site: www.foda.org
FODAC is a non-profit organization offering a variety of services to persons of all ages with physical and' mobility impairments. FODAC is a mission ministry of Mount Carmel Christian Church in Stone Mountain. FODAC provides assistive technology services and devices at no-charge to any person with a need. All assistive technology is used/refurbished.
Georgia ADA Exchange 4164 Admiral Drive Chamblee, GA 30341 (770) 451-2340 or 800-949-4232 VfITY Fax (770) 451-2340 Web site: www.georgiaadaexchange.org
ADA information and technical assistance.
Georgia ARC Network Julianna Koob, Executive Director 1000 Main Street Forest Park, GA 30297-1473 (404) 361-9311; Fax (404) 361-8933 . Working for a strong, unified advocacy in Georgia.
Georgia Consumer Council Larry Fricks Division MHMRSA 2 Peachtree Street, NW. 23rd Floor Atlanta. GA 30303 (404) 657-2103
Advocacy. Peer Support. Employment Assistance, Ombudsman
Georgia Council on Aging Maria Greene 2 Peachtree Street, NW, 18th Floor Atlanta. GA 30303 (404) 657-5342
Georgia Infirmary Day center for Rehabilitation 1900 Abercorn Street Savannah, GA 31405 .(912) 234-6694
Georgia Mountains nme for Community Coalition Linda Thagard

PO Box 457 Sautee. GA 30571 (706) 878-1066; Fax (706) 8778-1068 e-mail: lthagard@stc.net
Georgia Options. Inc. Mary Kissel. Executive Director 185 Ben Burton Circle Bogart, GA 30622 (706) 546-0009
Personal SupportlDay Habilitation
Georgia PAS Corps/AmeriCorps - Athens Area Katie Ford. Director 850 College Station Road Athens. GA 30602-4806 (706) 542-3907; Fax (706) 542-4815 e-mail: kford@arches.uga.edu
National service organization that provides personal assistants to people with disabilities. Recruits people interested in providing community service as PAS Corps/ AmeriCorps members.
The Gilmore center Lucy Shaver, Executive Director 103 Civic Center Drive PO Box 1093 Thomaston, GA 30286
Residential services. supported living. supported employment. day habilitation
Griffen Area Resource center Cary Grubbs. Executive Director 511 Hamilton Blvd., PO Box 835 Griffen. GA 30224 (770) 228-9919
Residential services, sheltered employment. supported employment, day habilitation
Institute on Human Development and Disability: A University Affiliated Program The University of Georgia Zolinda Stoneman. Director 850 College Station Road Athens, GA 30602-4806 (706) 542-3457; Fax (706) 542-4815 Web site: http://www.uap.uga.edu
For more information about the DiDO, see page 22.
Jewish Family and career services Webb Spraett, Director 4549 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd. Atlanta, GA 30338-6210 (770) 677-9345; Fax (770) 677-9400 e-mail: wspraetz@jfcs-atlanta.org
Learning Disabilities Assoc. of Georgia Vicki Hansberger. Executive Director PO Box 1337 Roswell, GA30077 (-770) 514-8088
For adult learning disabilities. (404) 688-7888

227

Marcus Center Whitney Fuchs, Director 1605 Chantilly Drive Atlanta, GA 30324
(404) 727-9568
Residential services, respite services, service coordination
Mayor's Action center T,Hl1eeka Hunter, Disability Affairs Coordinator, City of Atlanta 55 Trinity Avenue, SW, Suite 1920 Atlanta, GA 30335
Provides information and referral services, assistance with the Atlanta-Housing Authority and ADA compliance for people living within the City of Atlanta.

Fax (912) 681-0910 Toll free anywhere (800) 229-2038 e-mail: info@parenttoparentofga.org Web site: www.parenttoparentofg~.org
The support and information source for parents of children with disabilities or special health care needs.
Partners in Policy Making Georgia Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities Jerry Stedman . 2 Peachtree Street NW, Suite 3-210 Atlanta, GA 30303
(404) 657-2126
1tains people with disabilities, family members and friends to be effective advocates.

Mi Casa Martha and Sonny Mahan, Owners 1449 Golf Link Drive Stone t\lountain, GA 30088
(770) 306-2327
Multicultural Coalition on Disability & Diversity William Holley Institute on Human Development and Disability University of Georgia 850 College Station Road Athens, GA 30602-4806 (706) 542-3964; Fax (706) 542-4815
Striving to broaden the understanding of diversity in disability beyond ethnicity to include other factors that directly affect the lives of people of color. Provides education, awareness and advocacy training. develops programs aimed at prevention.
J
National Cen,ter for Handicapped Rights James Cherry 625 Reds Circle Lilburn, OA 30247
(404) 921-5822, (404) 921-5823
Northeast Georgia Coalition of Disability Advocates (NEGA CODA) Sarita Reddy 748 Riverhill Drive Athens, GA 30606 (706) 542-6085; Fax (706) 542-4815 e-mail: sareddy@arches.uga.edu
A coalition representing a variety of disability advocacy organization, as well as people with disabilities and their families and advocates in the ten-county area surrounding Athens-Clarke County.
Parent to Parent of Georgia .Cathy Spraetz, Executive Director 2872 Woodcock Boulevard, Suite 230 Atlanta, GA 30341 Atlanta and local calling area (770) 451-5484; Fax (770) 458-4091 AlbJny calling area (912) 438-5600; Fax (912) 436-8744 Statesboro calling area (9121 489-1904;

People First ~f Georgia

Jenny Manders

Institute on Human Development and Disability

The University of Georgia

850 College Station Rd.

Athens, GA 30602-4806

(706) 542-6086

.

1taining and support for self-advocates.

REJ\CH 1815 Ponce de Leon Ave_, NE Atlanta, GA 30307 (404) 320-6663; Fax (404) 373-0058

Star Choices

John Chandler. Executive Director

170 College Street

Macon, GA 30076

(912) 743-9801. Fax (912) 743-9806

r

Supported living. supported employment, day

habilitation

Southwest Georgia Easter seal Society, Inc. Beth English 1906 Palmyra Road Albany, GA 31701-1598 (912) 439-7601; Fax (912) 435-6278

Tabernacle Church of God in Christ Mary Ward Cater 6098 Causey Chapel Road, SW Austell, GA 30001
(770) 941-2777. (770) 435-5363
Church group open to the community to support persons with disabilities -: focus on self advocacy.

n:am Russel Power Lifting, Inc.

JOe Russel

931 Monroe Drive, Suite 102-351

Atlanta, GA 30308

(770) 353-4940; Fax (404) 815-1659

e-mail: Jrussel@Juno.com

.

1tains athletes with disabilities to prepare for

regional, national and international athletics; perform

inspirational/motivational sports demonstrations in

order to educate [he community abou[ the abilities of

people with disabilities.

228

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nme for Community Coalition. Lynn Thogerson 246 Sycamore Street, Suite 100 Decatur, GA 30030 (404) 687-9891; Fax (404) 687-8298
Coalition for advocacy groups for people with mental illness, developmental disabilities or issues of substance abuse.

Housing Access

Georgia Rehabilitation AsSociation (GRA)lHabitat

for Humanity Fund

'

Ken Nance

Division of Rehabilitation Services

404 S. Broad Street

Rome, GA 30161-4698

706/295-6400

Norman Race

Division of Rehabilitation Services

1604 C Vienno Hwy

Americas, GA 31709

912/931-2516

GRA has made $1 ,000 available for its eight sub

chapters to use in their efforts to partner with their

local Habitat for Humanity affiliate. The purpose of

this GRA/Habitat Fund is to prOVide matching funds

to assist individuals with disabilities with housing

acceSSibility, or in educating the community about the

need for more accessiblelvisitable housing. Contact

GRA for the location of nearest chapter.

. Habitat for Humanity Information Specialist 121 Habitat Street Americus, GA 31709-3498 912/924-6935; 912/924-6541 Fax Website: www.habitat.org
Habitat for Humanity International is an ecumenical Christian housing ministry that seeks to eliminate poverty housing and to make decent shelter a ~atter of conscience and action. Needy and affluent people work together in equal partnership to build relationships and a sense of community as well as new housing. Habitat builds and rehabilitates homes with the help of the home owner, volunteer labor, management expertise and tax-deductible donations.

Independent Living
AcceSs of the Chattahoochee Valley, Inc. Wayne Bristow, lteas. P.O. Box 8326, 1040 35th Street Columbus, GA 31904 706/324-4243; 706/322-1836 Fax
To overcome attitudes and physical barriers to people with disabilities, educate the public on accessibility issues, enhance the independent liVing skills of people with disabilities, and to enhance their quality of life.

AccessHaU County, Inc. Stephanie Wells, Executive Director P.O. Box 908484 Gainesville, GA.30501 770-532-7240; 770/532-4305 Fax
Committed to prOViding an array of services to assist individuals with disabilities to live independently, pursue meaningful goals and have the same opportunities and choices as all persons.

Barrier Free Gwinnett, Inc. Abby Shirley, Director 75 Langley Drive Lawrenceville, GA 32045 770/822-8830; 770/945-7009 Fax
A nonprofit advocacy group that strives for inclusion of all people with disabilities into the community.

Concrete Change 600 Dancing Fox Rd. Decatur, GA 30032 hnp://concretechange.home.mindspring.com e-mail: ConcreteChange@mindspring.com

Living Independence for Everyone, Inc. (LIFE, Inc., of Savannah) Pamela Hodge, Executive Director . 17-21 ltavis Street
Savannah, GA 31406 912/920-2414; 912/920-0007 Fax
Life, Inc. is dedicated to empower ~ple with disabilities to achieve equal rights, equal opportunity and integration into our community. The organization embraces and adheres to the independent liVing philosophy that is based on the core concepts of customer control. self-advocacy, community change and cross-disability participation, and the core independent living services of information and referral, peer support,
IL skills training and advocacy.

Open Doors to the Handicapped, Inc.

Bob Niederriter, Executive Director

165 Niederriter Road

Vidalia, GA 304 74

912/537-1975

To promote advocacy, accesSibility awareness and

independent liVing skills to people with disabilities and

their families.

.

Statewide Independent Living Council Pat Puckett, Executive Director 3125 Presidential Parkway, Suite 200 Atlanta, GA 30340 (770) 452-9601, Fax (770) 452-9928 1TY (770) 452-7087 e-mail: silcga@mindspring.com

229

Mental Health
Georgia Mental Health Consumer Network, Inc Delois SCott, Executive Director 246 Sycamore Street. Suite 100 Decatur, GA 30030
(SPO) 297-6146
National Mental Health Association of Georgia Cynthia Wainscott, Executive Director 100 Edgewood Ave. NE, Suite 502 Atlanta. GA 30303 (404) 527~7175; Fax(404) 527-7187r
NAMI-GA Don Daves. President 3125 Presidential Pkwy.. Suite 335 Atlanta. GA 30340 (770) 234-:0855 e~mail: NAMI-GA@namLorg

Specific .Disability

For an exhaustive listing of national organizations, associations. products and services, see Exceptional Parent Magazine's yearly Resource Guide. To subscribe call toll free at (S77) 372-7368 or look for these
resource issues in your local library. Their web address is www.eparent.com. For back issues of the magazine or their resource guide call (800) 372-7368. Cost of the resource gUide is $12 plus shipping & handling.

Acoustic Neuroma Association P.O. Box 12402 Atlanta. GA30355 (404) 237-8023

Arthritis Foundation-Georgia Chapter

Lloyd Brown, V.P. Programs

550 Pharr Road, Suite 550

Atlanta, GA 30305-3432

404/237-8771, 800/933-7023; 404/237-8153 Fax

Website: www.arthritis.org

.

The mission of the Arthritis Foundation is to support

research for the cure and prevention of arthritis, and to

improve the quality of life for those affected by arthritis. '

Autism Society of America - Greater Georgia Chapter

2971 Flowers Rd . South, Ste. 140

.

Atlanta, GA 30341

(404) 451-0954

Autism Society of America - central Georgia Chapter Contact LuAnn Ranalet' P.O. Box 404 Bonaire.GA 31005 (912) 9949-2926

Autism Society of America - Northeast Georgia Chapter Renee Feldman

P.O. Box 48366

Athens, GA 30604

(706) 208-2066

Emory Autism Resource center

0

718 Gatewood Rd.

Atlanta, GA 30322 . .

(404) 727-8350

Provides statewide information and consultation

related to individuals .with autism and prOVides services

and supports for these individuals and their families.

American Cancer Society , Athens Area (706) 549-4839

American Cancer Society-Southeast Division-Education Program Morgan Daven, Director Survivorship Initiates 2200 Lake Boulevard, Atlanta. Georgia 30319 404/816-7S00; 800/282-4914; 404/816-9443 Fax
Provides resources, information and guidance to cancer patients and their families. Provides patient services as well as limited financial assistance.

Brain Injury Association of Georgia

Beverly Morgan. I&R Coordinator

1447 Peachtree Street, NE, Suite 810

Atlanta. GA 30309

.

404/817-7577; 404/817-7519; 88S/334-2424

0

404/817-7521 Fax; 404/329-9390 TIT

To improve the quality of life of people with brain

injuries and their families and to help prevent traumatic

brain injury.

United cerebral Palsy of Greater Atlanta Diane Wilush. Executive Director 1665 Thllie Circle. Suite 100 Atlanta. GA 30329 (404) 329-9390 (VITIY)

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation-Georgia Chapter Maureen A. Fraser. Executive Director 2250 North Druid Hills Road. Suite 275 Atlanta. GA 30329 404/325-6973; 800/476-4483; 404/325-7921 Fax
Seeks to find a cure or control for cystic fibrosis and to improve the quality of life for patients liVing with cystic fibrosis through research. services include: resource directory. public and professional education, films. home healthcare/pharmacy services for patients and consumer gUides for young adults.

Diabetes Association of Atlanta
John Hinkle m. Executive Director

100 Edgewood Avenue. Suite 1004

Atlanta. GA 30303 404/527-7150; 404/527-7149 Fax

0

To improve the quality of life of the diabetic popula-

tion in metro Atlanta through screening. 'detection,

education and enhancement of service delivery by

230

coordinating service providers and other community resources.



Down SyndromeAssociation of Atlanta ltacy Collins, President 16871\Jllie Circle, Suite 110 Atlanta, GA 30329 404/320-3233; 404/320-6663 Fax
To promote awareness and create understanding of the potential of persons with Down Syndrome and "see the potential" through education, advocacy, sharing and supporting needs or individuals with Down Syndrome and their families through inclusion and community understand ing.

Epilepsy Foundation of America, Georgia Chapter Johnnie Hall, Lynne Dowd 100 Edgewood Avenue, Suite 1200 Atlanta, GA 30303
404/527-7155; 800/527-7105
Provides counseling and patient information to the individual, family and community regarding epilepsy and its consequences, referral to other appropriate resources and employment assistance..

National Kidney Foundation - Georgia Chapter 2951 Flowers Rd. S., #211 Atlanta, GA 30341 (770) 452-1539



Lekotek of Georgia Helene Prokesch, Executive Director

1955 Cliff Valley Way, Suite 102

Atlanta, GA 30329

404/633-3430; 404/63-1242 Fax

To include children with disabilities in family and

community activities through play. Memberships are

$120 per year. However, scholarships are available.

There are four Lekotek sites in Georgia. .

Eglestori Satellite, Egleston Children's Hospital

3790 Satellite Boulevard

Duluth, GA 30136

404/497-9179

Contact: Kelly Lewis

Marcus center Satellite, Emory University

1605 Chantilly Drive, Suite #150

Atlanta, GA 30324

404/727-9473

Contact: Ann Leverette

.

Rome Lekotek Satellite, Floyd Medical Center

1\Jrner McCall Boulevard

P.O. Box 233

Rome, GA 30162

706/234-2884

Contact: Jo Orr

Elaine Clark Satellite

5130 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard

Chamblee, GA 30030

770/458-3251

Contact: Joy ltotti

Leukemia Society of America, InC-Georgia Chapter Cheryl Bradley, Patient Services Manager

2625 Cumberland Parkway, Suite 205 Atlanta, GA 30339 770/438-6006; 770/438-6563 Fax
.The Chapter has a financial assistance program for persons with leukemia, Hodgkin's disease, lymphoma and multiple myeloma for treatment and therapy with a maximum of $500 per year.

Lupus Foundation of America, Inc.. Phyllis Keeler, Executive Director 150 Interstate North Parkway, NW, Suite 285 Atlanta, GA 30339-2203 770/952-389]; 770/952-1760 Fax
Atlanta Chapter. Provide support and education for Lupus patients, and provide/distri.bute Lupus information to individuals, organizations and communities. Conducts fundraising for research.

Muscular Dystrophy Association-Georgia Chapter Joanie Rosenbaum, Program Services Coordinator 2] 87 Northlake Parkway, Building 9, Suite] 16 1\Jcker, GA 30084 770/621-9800; 770/934-61 83 Fax Website: www.mdausa.org
Muscular Dystrophy Association's primary mission is to find a treatment(s) or cure for neuromuscular disease. secondary to that is the provision of medical care, equipment and summer camp.

National Multiple SClerosis Society-Georgia Chapter Sharyn Lane, Program Director 1100 Circle 75 Parkway, Suite 630 Atlanta, GA 30339 770/984-9080; 770/984-9352 Fax
Chapter prOVides information and referral services for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and their families. The Chapter is committed to helping people with MS by providing programs and services to help meet the following needs: knowledge of MS, physical health. emotional health, independent living, longterm care, employment and social support and accessibility.

Osteogenesis Imperfeeta Council of Georgia Renee Peek
755 Commerce Drive, Suite 415 Decatur, GA 30030
(404) 687-8890 FAX (404) 687-8298 Supports peopl~ with 01 and their families. Advocate
public awarness and educate mediCal professionals about 01.

American Parkinson's Disease Association CAPDA)

Nancy Watts, Coordinator, APDA Emory Clinic

1365 Clifton Road, NE

.

Atlanta, GA 30322

404778-5120; 404/778-3767 Fax

ADPA prOVides information and makes referrals to

people and family members. They prOVide educational

materials and hold classes on issues about Parkinson's

Disease. APDA's support groups help families deal with

needs and concerns, and they prOVide a network to

other chapters.

231

Georgia Association for Prader-Willi Syndrome

107 Chestnut Street

'

Roswell, GA 30175

(770) 518-4795

Spina Bifida Association of Georgia, Inc. Shira M. Ledman. M.S.W.. Executive Director 3355 Northeast Expressway. Suite 207
Atlanta, GA 30324 (404) 636-6212 e-mail: sbag@mindspring.com
The Spina Bifida Association promotes the achievement of full potential for persons born with spina bifida.

Georgia Speech-.La nguage-Hearing Association Raymond Penn. Executive Director
PO Box 6708 Athens. GA 30604 (706) 613~0144. (800) 226-4724 e-mail: exdir@gsha.org

National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA)
Bernadette Mauro 8300 Colesville Road, Suite 551 Silver Spring. MD 20910 301/588-6959; 800/962-9629; 301/588-941~ Fax Website: www.spinalcord.org e-mail: Nscia2@aol.com
A membership organization that deals with the medical and social problems that result from spinal cord injury. Members have access to medical product discounts through agreements NSCIA has with Consolidated Products and services

lburette Syndrome Association of Georgia

Heidi Cohen, Director

5600 Roswell Road NE, North Building, Suite 285

Atlanta, GA 30342

404/250-4322

.,

Provide information and services to persons with

Tourette Syndrome and their families, and promote

awareness, greater understanding and increased

education about Tourette Syndrome among profession-

als and the general public in order to facilitate an early,

accurate diagnosis of Tourette Syndrome, and sympa- .

thetic appropriate treatment for those with the disorder.

Supported Employment
Briggs &. Associates Jennifer Briggs, Director 2215 Six Branches Drive Roswell, GA 30338 (770) 993-4559
The Gilmore Center (se~ listing page 227)
Griffen Area Resource Center (see listing page 227)

Star Choices (see listing page 228)
Supported Employment Network Paul Bostrom 3079 Crossing Park, Suite 4 Noraoss, GA 30071

o

Technology

center for Rehabilitation 'lKhnology
Joe Koncelik
Georgia Jnstitute of Technology 490 10tu Street
Atlanta. GA 30033-0156 (404) 894-4960; Fax (404) 894-9320

Friends of Disabled Adults (FODA) 4600 Lewis Road Stone Mountain, GA 30083 (770) 491-9014 Web site: http://www,foda.org
Salvages mobility equipment, makes repairs and either loans or gives away the eqUipment.

Make A Way COrporation 315 Whitehead Rd. Athens, GA 30606 (706) 353-1099
Specializes in wheelchair and vehicle modifications.

o

Transportation (Automotive) Assistance

Chrysler COrporation Automobility Program P.O. Box 3124 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 800/255-9817
Provides a cash reimbursement when you buy or lease a new Chrysler Corporation vehicle. Chrysler Corporation will give you a cash reimbursement to help cover the cost of installing adaptive driver or passenger equipment on the vehicle. Conversions to full size Ram Vans and Ram Wagons may reimbursed up to a maximum of $1,000. Conversions to all other Chrysler Corporation cars, trucks and minivans qualify for a maximum reimbursement of $750. Vehicles must be bought or leased on a retail basis from a franchised Chrysler Corporation dealer to qualify for reimbursement. For the purposes of this program, adaptive equipment is defined as equipment needed by persons with a disability to drive, enter. exit and/or be transported safely in a motor vehicle. Factory optional eqUipment does not qualify for reimbursement.

Ford Mobility Motoring Program P.O. Box 529 Bloomfield. MI 48303 800/952-2248
The Ford Mobility Motoring Program provides a

o

232



check directly from your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer for up to $750 toward the exact cost of your adaptive equipment conversion when you purchase or lease an eligible new Ford or Lincoln-Mercury. Equipment without dear definition of intent may require a prescription from an accredited or licensed professional source. The Ford Mobility Motoring Program was created to make adapting your new Ford or Lincoln-Mercury vehicle easier and more rewarding. This program provides up to $750 on-the-spot cash, a Ford Cellular Telephone and Roadside Assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
General Motors Assistance Center
p.o. Box 9011
Detroit, MI 48202 800/323-9935
General Motors, and GM dealers nationwide have designed the General Motors Mobility Program which includes a comprehensive information program, and add a reimbursement opportunity for assistive technology devices and services when the consumer purchases a new GM vehicle (Chevrolet, Pontiac, Oldsmobile, Buick, Cadillac or GMC truck). The rebate program reimburses the buyerlowner up to $1.000 for veh ide mod ifications (i.e., lifts. hand controls. etc.)




233