HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015, 06-17, Committee on People with Disabilities AgendaI wrote to both our Mayor and Governor regarding the incredible kokua the
Coordinated Services offer the elderly. Unfortunately, I didn't receive any
response. As time has gone by, there's more detail that needs to be expressed,
understood, and organized accordingly.
There are many kapuna who can't or don't drive and are disabled. Their needs are
placed under categories. Medical, therapy, and medication pick up. Due to the
medical services that are available, making appointments become complicated
not only for the patients but also for the coordinated drivers. The team work this
service offers can be complicated because of changes and yet they are incredibly
flexible. I am sincerely grateful for their versatility. But there isn't enough
vehicles, drivers, or time to meet the needs to be full filled. And that also includes
members of our community that are disabled for other reasons.
The Share A Cab Program is the additional form of kokua and offers lots
flexibility. They make up for in between doctor's appointments, food shopping,
and some community events. But we need the County to help them kokua us. The
cost can interfere with personal situations because of financial struggles.
Putting aside the cut-backs of the hospital, how will that to affect us? There are
some medical needs that can always be placed by making an appointment but to
coordinate both sides isn't going to be any easier. I recently experienced an
urgent situation that might not have gotten me where I needed to go on such a
short notice. But their incredible team work made it possible and how grateful I
am for what these people did for my situation. Instead of the ER, we need an in
between facility through the program; another form of an Urgent Care.
Can there be a way to categorize the daily needs of a flexible program to cover the
elderly and disabled? This is where I wish our Mayor and Governor could be here
to listen to each side of the situation.
Mahalo pumehana,
Lynise Tarring