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Get the Word Out   Spread the word that people can no longer be forced into nursing homes or institutions. Tell your family, friends, church, club, neighbors. Get folks talking and thinking. Refer folks to this website when they want to learn about the issue. There are two courts in this country; public officials, including lawmakers, and the court of public opinion -- the press. Which is more powerful? It's a toss-up. Changing the attitudes of public officials is certainly vital. But without changing the attitudes of our neighbors, it's an unending job. Every time a new politician makes the scene, you'll be starting all over again. So do yourself a favor. Get the press up to speed on this issue. Here are the 3 points you want to make:   Institutions are horrible. Besides, they cost more than a life in freedom.   The community is the only real place for real people. Besides, it's cheaper.   Simple solution: take money from institutions- and put it into community supports.   States need to create a "Most Integrated Setting" committee to develop a "Community Integration Plan." You can help develop this plan as part of our network of advocates.   who are the stakeholders? People often apply for Medicaid when they decide they have to move into a nursing home. But all individuals who apply to get Medicaid should get information from their state on ALL the home and community service options the state offers. Many states already offer in-home services, but they often try to limit them. After checking the information on this website about your state, please e-mail us if you know of other in-home services your state offers that we haven't listed. And if you know groups who are working to change things in your state, let us know about them, too. Some states are already working on a Community Integration Plan. Here's the Health Care Financing Adminstration's Jan. 14, 2000 letter to states about what's required in a Community Integration Plan. Watch this spot for a sample Community Integration Plan your state can adopt.   Freedom Clearinghouse is a project of Free Hand Press, publisher of Mouth magazine. Website developed by Cliffwood Organic Works. Website hosted by DIMENET. | E-mail | Home |