WVATS Quarterly Newsletter
Fall 2005

Articles:   [WVATS]   [Resources]   [Tools]   [State]   [National]   [DBTAC]   [AgrAbility]   [Medicare Changes] 

Funding Assistive Technology

In 2001, over 15 million Americans with disabilities reported using assistive technology (AT). So, how did they all pay for it? For most people, trying to obtain a new piece of AT can be a lengthy and challenging process.

"The Pathways to Funding Guides" are handbooks that focus on funding assistive technology for children and older adults. The Guides contain descriptions of the major funding sources in West Virginia as well as other ways to fund your AT needs.

The Guides also provide answers to some common AT funding questions, such as vans, computers, lifts, etc. and explain how to organize a funding request. The Guides are available in print and on the WVATS web page at www.cedwvu.org/programs/wvats/.

This edition of the WVATS newsletter is designed to ensure individuals are aware of sources available to help fund the assistive technology needs of persons of all ages and disabilities.

For more information about assistive technology funding, call the WVATS information and referral hotline at 800-841-8436.

Did You Know?

• Over fifteen million Americans with disabilities use assistive devices or technologies. (National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research, 2001)
• Approximately 2.2 million people use wheelchairs. Another 6.4 million use ambulatory aids such as a cane, crutches or a walker. (U. S. Census Bureau, 2001)
• One third of persons age 50 years and older use some type of special equipment or assistive technology. (AARP, 2003)
     - Walker, cane or crutches (69%)
     - Aids for bathing or using the toilet (51%)
     - Wheelchair or scooter (47%)
     - Other home modifications for movement (37%)
     - Orthopedic equipment (37%)
     - Other aids for daily activities (33%)
     - Communications and reading equipment (14%)
     - Oxygen or respirator (14%)
     - Hearing aids (13%)

The Resource Section

Health Check (EPSDT)

Early Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment (EPSDT), known in West Virginia as Health Check, is a mandated Medicaid program enacted in 1967 to ensure that Medicaid-eligible children ages 0 through 20 years, receive a comprehensive range of preventive and primary health services before conditions become serious enough to impair growth and development. Thus, the program's central purpose is preventative care.

Who can get Health Check?

• Children under age 21 who receive Medicaid can also participate in the EPSDT Program
• A child may receive Medicaid and EPSDT even if the family does not qualify for Medicaid

What services does Health Check offer?

Children are entitled to several medically necessary services under the EPSDT Program. Services include:

• Physician's services
• Hospital inpatient care
• Outpatient hospital services
• Emergency room services
• X-ray and laboratory services prescribed by an authorized practitioner
• Prescribed drugs
• Prescribed drugs for AIDS patients
• Transportation by ambulance or other appropriate means
• Artificial limbs, braces, orthopedic shoes, crutches, walkers, wheel-chairs and breathing machines, when prescribed by a doctor
• Eye care services
• Medical supplies
• Care in nursing facilities
• Family planning services
• Speech and hearing services, physical therapy and occupational therapy
• Outpatient mental health services

West Virginia's Health Check program has over four hundred local providers, primary care centers, private physicians and local health departments. For more information about program benefits and local providers, please call 800-642-9704 or your local Department of Health and Human Resources office (welfare office).

Catastrophic Illness Commission

The James "Tiger" Morton Catastrophic Illness Commission acts as a last resort for those in dire need of medical assistance once all other resources are exhausted. The Commission, guided by a Governor-appointed board of citizens from across the state, is administered through the Office of the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Resources.

An application will be taken over the phone and a decision made within approximately one week. Applications are accepted directly from a patient, though receiving applications from a medical facility is preferred.

The Commission makes direct payment to the provider of the service through the West Virginia Medicaid program. Call 304-558-6073 for more information, or to apply.

Children's Specialty Care

Children's Specialty Care operates through the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources. The program provides specialized medical care for children who have or might have chronic disabling medical conditions. Any child living in West Virginia who is under 21 years of age and has a medical problem that needs specialized care may be eligible for this program.

What services are offered?

• Medical visits
• Laboratory tests
• X-rays
• Medications
• Hospitalization
• Limited physical and/or speech therapy
• Surgery
• Referral for medical services
• Equipment and supplies, including assistive technology

For more information on Children's Specialty Care, please call 800-642-9704 or visit www.wvdhhr.org/mcfh

West Virginia's Technology-Related Assistance Revolving Loan Fund

The West Virginia Legislature set aside $100,000 for a revolving loan fund to allow people with disabilities the assistive technology they need.

Loans may range from a minimum of $500 to a maximum of $5,000. A person may borrow up to 90% of the cost of the technology-related device or service. The current interest rate is 4%. The loan program is managed by the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS). For more information call 800-642-8207.

Online Benefits Tool Available

Do you think you might be missing out on benefits? BenefitsCheckUp is a national online tool that benefits older adults (ages 55 and over). BenefitsCheckUp contains over 1,300 different programs from all fifty states that can help pay for prescription drugs, health care, utilities and other needs.

In addition to identifying the benefits a person may be eligible to receive, BenefitsCheckUp provides a detailed description of the programs, typically including the addresses and phone numbers of where to apply for the programs, as well as information on how to successfully apply for each program.

Individuals answer a few short questions about where they live, income and health, which results in a list of programs they may be eligible for with information about each one. This process usually takes 20-30 minutes. For more information visit www.benefitscheckup.com

What is the Family Support Program?

The Family Support Program helps West Virginia families who have someone with a developmental disability living in their home. This program offers services to help families meet their basic needs and maintain their quality of life. Family Support is "funding of last resort."

Who can get services?

• Families who have a member with a developmental disability
• Families who have been turned down by other funding sources
• Families who have no insurance

What supports can the Family Support Program fund?

• Respite care
• Special equipment
• Transportation
• Home modifications
• Service coordination
• Assistance in getting benefits from Children with Special Health Care Needs, SSI and Vocational Rehabilitation
• Other supports that a family requests

Funding is not based on family income. For more information on how to apply please call 304-558-0627 or visit www.wvdhhr.org/bhhf

Major Assistive Technology Funding Sources in West Virginia

Medicaid - 304-558-0684
Medicare - 800-638-6833
Rehabilitation Services - 800-642-8207
Private Insurance - 800-642-9004 (WV Insurance Commission)
Veterans Affairs - 800-827-1000
Department of Special Education - 800-642-8541

VISIONS

VISIONS - Visually Impaired Seniors In-Home Outreach and Networking Services - provides free in-home services to adults who are 55 and older and who have severe vision impairments. The VISIONS staff of five skills trainers does assessments for vision-related assistive technology, as well as for developing independent living plans and providing skills training in activities of daily living, home management, orientation and mobility and communication.

VISIONS provides low vision aids including magnifiers, large print items like check registers, calendars, diabetic registers, address books, large button phones, adaptive equipment for the kitchen and more for individuals who need such devices. For more information call 800-642-3021.

ADAPT News       adaptwv@hotmail.com

Medicaid Redesign - What It Means To Us
By Ken Ervin

The state of West Virginia is currently undergoing a "Medicaid Redesign process." Our governor says that the overhaul of Medicaid will make history. Many of us in the disability community are worried that the only thing that will be created through this process are serious problems in the lives of citizens with disabilities. Here are a few of the proposed changes that we have to look forward to:

1. One of the recommendations that has been put on the table is that new income limits be set for Medicaid recipients and that simply receiving SSI will no longer qualify individuals for Medicaid coverage.
2. All Medicaid recipients will be required to sign member agreements in order to receive Medicaid benefits. Individuals would have to sign agreements saying that they would not participate in habits such as smoking in order to receive Medicaid. I think there is a great possibility that these member agreements could infringe on the basic rights of citizens.
3. Policymakers say that there will be no caps on proposed services and that we are not moving toward a managed care system, however, it is difficult to see how many of the services being proposed could be provided without caps.
4. While the governor and DHHR talk about accountability there are no quality assurances in place that guarantee that services are delivered by providers. Without accurate data collection methods we have no mechanism for determining where costs can truly be eliminated.

After a great deal of struggling, a few of us were invited to be part of the Redesign process. However, I am unsure that our opinions were truly heard or respected. We have heard that there may be pubic hearings, but no date has been set. If you are concerned about the sweeping changes that are proposed by Medicaid Redesign, we urge you to contact the governor at 888-438-2731 to request public hearings before any changes are made that could drastically effect our lives. To find more information about Medicaid Redesign check out www.wvdhhr.org/bms/.

Dwayne Scott, First Advisory Board Chair

Dwayne Scott is a long-time member of the WVATS Advisory Board. Dwayne, who is from the Wheeling area, also has a long-term relationship with country music legend, George Jones. Dwayne became a fan of country music and George Jones while he was a young teenager. Dwayne became an active member of the George Jones Fan Club and was named the West Virginia Representative for the fan club almost 25 years ago. Dwayne has written articles for the "George Jones Newsletter," which is distributed internationally, and points out that George Jones has had more top ten hits than any other recording artist.

Wheeling is home to the Capitol Music Hall, a major venue for entertainment especially by country music stars since the 1920s. The Hall has frequently hosted George Jones. When George Jones performs at the Hall, he invariably makes arrangements for Dwayne to attend the concert and to spend time with him and his band members. Dwayne had the opportunity a few years ago to travel to Nashville to attend a George Jones concert on a trip arranged by George Jones.

Dwayne recalls that WVATS staff member, Joe Frame, called to tell him that he had been elected to serve on the WVATS Advisory Board while Dwayne was waiting for an interview with George Jones. Dwayne further recalls he was late to the first WVATS Board meeting in 1992 because he was attending a George Jones Fan Club meeting. Dwayne was elected as chair of the WVATS Advisory Board at that first meeting of the Board.

Dwayne still serves on the WVATS Advisory Board. WVATS staff and the Board can always depend on Dwayne to write letters, call his numerous contacts and educate legislators about assistive technology. He has also served for several years on the Consumer Advisory Council of the Center for Excellence in Disabilities (CED) and is now chair of the CED Council. You can reach Dwayne at dschairman@aol.com

Fundraising for Assistive Technology

On occasion it is necessary for an individual or family to consider fundraising as a means of purchasing needed assistive technology.

How do you start a fundraising effort?
If you are an individual or family member needing assistive technology it may be helpful to approach a church, fraternal or civic organization within your community to sponsor the fundraising effort. They may be willing to sponsor a bake sale, bazaar, pancake breakfast or similar activity that can help raise funds.

If you have a willing sponsor who has no experience in fundraising but is willing to assist, here are some general guidelines that can help take some of the mystery out of fundraising.

• What is the funding need? Be specific.
• Work with your supporter on a plan to achieve the goal.
• Include a timeline on when things should be accomplished.
• Be available to answer questions and make appearances at events on your behalf.

If your sponsor wishes to create a donor letter campaign, these are a few things to keep in mind when creating the letter:

• Think about why you are writing the letter
• Who is the audience you are writing to
• Write the letter so it reads well out loud
• Include why the donation is needed and what it will be used for
• Adding a picture of the assistive devices is always good
• Let them know what an impact their donation will have
• Use short paragraphs and simple concise descriptions
• If your sponsor is a non-profit entity that can accept charitable contributions, check if the donor can get a tax exemption for their gift

It is often necessary to combine several types of resources. It can often be difficult to go to one's community for assistance. But it is important to remember that asking for assistance is not admitting defeat, but realizing that there are people willing to help donate time and money to help you.

Exerpted from "PATHS to Funding" Guides

2006 Celebrating PATHS to Real Choice Conference

The PATHS to Real Choice conference will provide adults, their families and/or support networks with practical information, resources and contacts they can use immediately to meet their needs in the areas of: Employment, Advocacy and Due Process, Real Choice Community Inclusion Showcase and Assistive Technology Funding. The conference will be useful to anyone interested in learning about services and supports for adults with disabilities and assistive technology. For more information, call 800-841-8436 or e-mail rvergara@hsc.wvu.edu

Apple Pie Made Easy
9 inch pre-made pie crust
2 Tbsp. butter
1 c. sugar
6 tart apples for cooking (sliced & peeled)
1 tsp. cinnamon

Mix cinnamon and sugar together. Add apples and mix well. Place apples into pie shell. Add butter. Add top crust and pinch edges together. Make slits in top crust. Bake in preheated oven at 450 degrees for 45-50 minutes. Makes 8 servings. Recipe compliments of Cooks.com

Use this kitchen assistive technology to help prepare your apples:

Apple Slicer/Corer- Neatly cores and sections apples in a jiffy! This lightweight tool has a sharp stainless steel blade that cuts eight wedges perfect for pies, salads, snacks and canning. Available at Wal-mart, K-Mart and many other stores for under ten dollars.

Powerful Tools

Electronic Preservation of Braille Service

The American Printing House (APH) can now convert your printed Braille into electronic Braille files, making it possible for you to preserve:
    - Important documents
    - Vintage books
    - Documents that you may need to edit or update frequently
    - Metal mastering plates

Using a new process, APH can scan single-sided or interpoint Braille documents on paper or metal master plates and return a Braille-ready file on floppy disk, CD-ROM or via email. These files have been proofread by an National Library Service certified Braillist and are ready for you to edit or send directly to an embosser or notetaker. APH cannot scan tactile graphic portions of documents.

The cost is $2.50 per page. Federal Quota funds may be used under most circumstances. If you have questions about Federal Quota eligibility, need more information about the preservation process or to place an order, call 800-223-1839 or visit the web site at www.aph.org

The Stove Guard

The Stove Guard is a safety device that uses technology to control a stove's electrical system. The Guard features a "Sensor Eye with Brains" that monitors your presence in the kitchen area. As soon as you leave the kitchen, Stove Guard's internal timer starts running. When the pre-programmed time is up, Stove Guard automatically turns off your stove.

If you return to the kitchen before the programmed time expires, the "Sensor Eye with Brains," along with the microprocessor, will remember the previous timer setting; it will automatically reset the timer back to the original time set. No need to reset the timer - it does it for you.

For more information visit www.save-on-security.com or call 800-931-3707.

The Long Wallet

This communication device is a 4" x 8 1/2" book that fits in a back pocket or purse. The 12 pages hold grids to display 576 one-inch symbols. For more information visit www.mayer-johnson.com or call 800-588-4548.

The Zonco Arm

Zonco Arm Supports were developed to clamp on to a table or wheelchair to give greater independence to computer keyboard users with Carpel Tunnel Syndrome, Parkinson's Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy, ALS, Post-Stroke and other neurological disorders.

The Zonco Mobile Arm Valet was developed with the same engineering characteristics as the Zonco Arm, but it has more features. The Valet has attachments to help with eating, writing, keyboarding, shaving and brushing your teeth. It also clamps to a table or a wheelchair.

For more information visit www.zoncoarm.com or call 800-370-0047.

Casio Pill Case with 5-Alarm Vibrating Clock

Never forget to take your pills again! This new vibrating alarm pill case reminds you when it's time to take your medications. It allows you to store up to five different types of pills and be reminded of when to take them by setting up to five different alarms with vibration. The Casio Pill box has a heavy duty compact storage case for your pills and a large number digital display clock. For more information call 800-881-4327 (voice) or 800-281-3555 (TTY) or visit www.hearmore.com

TextHELP Read & Write GOLD

Read & Write GOLD can be a solution for reading and writing needs and literacy support through a unique set of features for users with literacy or learning difficulties.

Read & Write GOLD works within standard Windows applications such as Microsoft Word and Internet Explorer. Read & Write GOLD also reads Portable Document Format (PDF) documents. Read & Write GOLD has a toolbar that "floats" on top of any open application so assistance can be called on as the user works.

For more information call 888-248-0652 or visit www.texthelp.com

National News

New version of the National Public Internet Site (www.assistivetech.net)

Georgia Tech's Center for Assistive Technology and Environmental Access (CATEA) has announced release of the revised assistivetech.net web site.

Since its initial launch in 2000, assistivetech.net has provided people with disabilities, their family members, service providers, employers, and educators with a resource for assistive technology and a link to a wide array of disability-related information and services. Over the past five years, this resource has grown to nearly 20,000 products, over 1,400 resource information links and nearly 1,000 links to assistive technology vendors.

"The best thing about assistivetech.net is that it's for everyone," said Robert Todd, co-principal investigator. "We've taken great care to provide the highest level of accessibility with the site. Given the site content, we naturally focused on people with disabilities - people with low vision, blindness, poor motor control, cognitive disabilities and many others. But in doing so, we've also designed helpful features that make the site easier to use for everyone. Think of ramps created alongside of stairs in today's built environment - they make access to buildings possible for people using wheelchairs, but they also are very handy for anyone rolling luggage or pushing a baby stroller. The usability features of assistivetech.net create simple, easy access to information in much the same way."

The site is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS).

Beyond the assistive technology products and resources, assistivetech.net features include:

• Usable search functions to assist with AT definitions and selection
• Vendor Data Entry Interface to enable vendors to maintain their AT information
• Monthly "AT Reports" to assist consumers with learning about specific categories of assistive technology and with making assistive technology purchase decisions
• Personalized Site View that allows users to enlarge the size of text or change the contrast without using any specialized computer software or hardware
• Improved, easier-to-use access to all AT products For additional information about the project call 800-726-9119.

State News

AccessWV

AccessWV is a health plan run by the West Virginia Insurance Commission for people who have been turned down for insurance because of a health problem, or who have lost their insurance because they were laid off or their employer closed its doors.

To qualify for AccessWV, a person must be a West Virginia resident for at least 30 days, not be eligible for a group insurance plan through an employer or spouse's employer and not eligible for Medicaid, Medicare or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIPS).

An individual must also have a chronic medical problem such as diabetes that prevents them from receiving private health insurance and must have been rejected by an insurance carrier in the last six months.

For more information, call AccessWV at 866-445-8491 or visit www.wvinsurance.gov/accesswv/

Fannie Mae Offers Special Home Loans

Huntington Bank will offer Fannie Mae's HomeChoice Program in West Virginia. This loan program is designed to meet the mortgage needs of low-to-moderate income borrowers with disabilities or those who have a family member with a disability. The program offers extra flexibilities for qualifications that often hinder home ownership opportunities such as a person's credit history.

For more information, call your local Huntington Bank or visit Fannie Mae on the web at www.efanniemae.com and click on mortgage products.

The Real Choice Resource Directory

"The Real Choice Resource Directory" is a tool available to explore funding sources and services related to assistive technology and other social services. This online resource directory contains thousands of resources for persons with disabilities, family members and care givers. It can be accessed on the web at www.cedwvu.com/resource/searchpage.aspx

WV DBTAC News

2005 - 2006 K-12 Web Site Accessibility Contest

Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Consortium on Accessible Information Technology in Education

What is web site accessibility?
Web site accessibility means ensuring information on web sites is available to ALL users, including individuals with disabilities. Individuals who are blind, hard of hearing, or who have mobility impairments may need to use special technologies for access. Web sites need to be designed in a way that can accommodate these technologies.

What is the purpose of this competition?
The purpose of the Web Site Accessibility Contest is to increase student awareness (after all, they are the next generation of web designers and webmasters!) of the importance of web access for ALL, and to increase the interest of school districts in improving the accessibility of their web sites. We hope this contest will help people learn that it is easy and the right thing to do.

Who is eligible?
K-12 schools in the Mid-Atlantic Consortium region are welcome to submit their web sites for review. The Consortium includes the Assistive Technology Act programs in:
     - Delaware
     - Washington, DC
     - Maryland
     - Pennsylvania
     - Virginia
     - West Virginia

Categories for judging are:
     - Elementary grades (student developed web sites)
     - Middle school (student developed web sites)
     - High school level (student developed web sites)
     - Non-student developed web sites

Individual sites will be competing against others submitted in the same category from across the Consortium's six state region.

What are the prizes?
The most accessible and creative web site in each category (elementary, middle and high school and non-student developed) will be awarded a digital camera, to be presented to the school in March 2006.

A Grand Prize of a DIGITAL VIDEO CAMERA will be awarded for the most accessible site of all the entries. The Grand Prize will be presented to the winning school in March 2006.

All participants will receive a Certificate of Participation and a copy of the accessibility review. All awardees will be featured on the consortium's web site www.adainfo.org/accessible/it

How do I enter the contest?
      - Please contact us at mneal@hsc.wvu.edu or adolloff@temple.edu to let us of know of your intent to enter the contest (not required but appreciated).
      - All entries are due by December 16, 2005. When you are ready to submit your web site for evaluation, complete the form on our site www.adainfo.org/accessible/it/webcontest.asp
      - Each website will be judged in January-February    2006.
      - Awards will be announced in March 2006.

Where can I get more information?
For more information on web accessibility and to get judging criteria, visit www.adainfo.org/accessible/it

Accessible Features Built-in to Computers

One way for individuals to get started using the computer and to save money is to use the built-in accessibility features in the Microsoft operating system.

To access these tools:
      - Click on the Start Button
      - Go to All Programs
      - Accessories
      - Accessibility

You will find accessibility options for individuals who have difficulty seeing the screen, hearing or using the keyboard including:
      - A screen magnifier
      - A voice output narrator
      - An On-Screen Keyboard
      - An Accessibility Wizard feature

Another way to access accessibility features is to go to My Computer, Control Panel, then Accessibility Options. Here you can change the text size and colors on your screen, adjust keyboard and mouse settings, and other options. These options allow you to arrange your display screen, keyboard, mouse and sound to better meet your needs.

The Microsoft Company offers fact sheets, step-by-step tutorials and accessibility research on its web page. All are free downloads to the public.

The "Accessibility Update" is a free e-mail newsletter providing information about resources to help make the computer easier to use with accessible technology solutions. Information about accessibility options in Microsoft products, accessibility resources and assistive technology products compatible with the Windows operating system are provided in the newsletter. The newsletter is sent through e-mail on the first Thursday of each month.

For more information on the built-in features, the Microsoft operating system or the free newsletter, please visit www.microsoft.com/enable or call 800-MICROSOFT (800-642-7676).

Media Access Generator (MAGpie)
Developers of Web- and CD-ROM-based multimedia may need a tool for making their materials accessible to persons with disabilities. The National Center for Accessible Media (NCAM) has developed such a tool.

Media Access Generator (MAGpie) is an application that allows authors to add captions and audio descriptions to multimedia in two formats used by several popular players. Because it is JAVA-based, MAGpie will work on both a personal computer (PC) and a Macintosh. It can be downloaded at no charge from http://ncam.wgbh.org/webaccess/magpie

NCAM is a research and development facility dedicated to the issues of media and information technology for people with disabilities in their homes, schools, workplaces and communities.

Resources for getting a computer

- MISSION WV
MISSION West Virginia is a statewide organization which has a large supply of refurbished and new computers available to congregations, non-profit organizations and educational entities at costs that are below retail price.
MISSION WV is offering refurbished computers beginning at $99 and refurbished monitors beginning at $15. Brand new computers are also being offered beginning at $299, new monitors at $99 and new ink jet printers at $45. To view available equipment or to place an order, visit www.missionwv.org or call 304-523-0623.

- Computers for Literacy Students
With help from both the Literacy Volunteers and Laubach Literacy, computer systems are given to students who are progressing in their studies and whose literacy and computer literacy skills will be enhanced by frequent use of a computer. Any literacy tutor who believes a computer would benefit his/her student is welcome to apply. Call 304-523-2257.

- New World Solutions
New World Solutions is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities through life-enhancing computer technology. They sell brand new, high quality IBM compatible computer systems at discount prices. For more information, call 888-265-1515.

Serving West Virginia Farmers & Farm Families

Do you belong to an organization whose members might want to know more about West Virginia AgrAbility?

Please call to arrange an AgrAbility presentation.

We would like to share information with your organization about the AgrAbility Project and how it helps farmers and their families.

1-800-841-8436 or agrability@hsc.wvu.edu

Funding Resources for Farmers and Agricultural Educators

A number of competitive grants and cost-share programs are available to help farmers. If you don't have access to the Internet, please call 304-293-4692, ext. 1185 for additional information.

Sustainable Agriculture

Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education (SARE) Farmer-Grower Grant Program
www.uvm.edu/%7Enesare/FGinfo.html
The goal of the Farmer-Grower grant program is to develop, refine and demonstrate new sustainable techniques and to explore innovative ideas developed by farmers across the region. You do not need to be farming full time, but your operation should have an established crop or animal product that you sell on a regular basis.
Due date: December 6, 2005

Our West Virginia AgrAbility office now has 2006 Farmer- Grower Grant applications as well as a helpful 34-page guide titled, "How to Write a SARE Farmer-Grower Grant Application." If you'd like a copy, please call 304-293-4692 x1185.

Northeast SARE Partnership Grant Program
www.uvm.edu/%7Enesare/PARTinfo.html
The Partnership Grant is for agricultural professionals who work directly with farmers - specifically Cooperative Extension, Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) personnel, non-governmental organizations and others operating in the farm community who are interested in developing on-farm demonstration, research or marketing projects related to sustainable agriculture.
Due date: November 29, 2005

Agricultural Management Assistance
www.wv.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/ama/05_AMA/ama.html
The Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) offers a cost-share program to help cover the costs of fencing, wind-breaks, reclamation plantings and sustainable 'truck-farming' produce operations.

Organic Certification Cost-share Program
http://www.wvagriculture.org/images/Marketing/Application%20for%20Reimbursement.pdf
Note: this is a PDF file.
The West Virginia Department of Agriculture and USDA have teamed to offer cost-share reimbursement of the fees associated with organic certification-a great incentive for anyone 'riding the fence' on transitioning to organic farming.

Youth and Gardening

2006 Youth Garden Grants Program
www.kidsgardening.com/grants.asp
The National Gardening Association and Home Depot award Youth Garden Grants to schools and community organizations with child-centered, outdoor garden programs.

In 2006, 150 programs will receive Home Depot gift cards for the purchase of gardening materials and supplies particular to the needs of their program, and an activity package from the National Gardening Association.

Schools, youth groups, community centers, camps, clubs, treatment facilities and intergenerational groups throughout the United States are eligible. Applicants must plan to garden in 2006 with at least 15 children between the ages of 3-18 years.
Due date: November 30, 2005

Scotts' Give Back to Grow Program
www.scotts.com/
The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company celebrates and honors individuals who take pride in giving back to their communities through gardening. The sixth annual Scotts' Give Back to Grow Awards provide support for, and promote participation in, gardening that grows community pride. Each winner will receive a $5,000 cash prize and public recognition for their work.
Due date: December 2, 2005

Raking Made Easy

Aside from being a seasonal imperative for those in wooded areas, raking leaves can be a therapeutic source of exercise and fresh autumn air, not to mention a great source of mulch for cold-sensitive perennials. Chronic back or wrist pain due to injury, arthritis, or other conditions can make the experience less than fun, however. There are several simple, inexpensive rakes and handle adaptations that are readily available, including the Earth Bud-Eze Shrub rake which is ideal for small jobs and hard to reach places.

Available from www.gardenscapetools.com, Earth Bud-Eze upright non-slip ribbed hand grip and flexible arm cuff offer additional stability to the tool and strength to gardeners with chronic joint and muscle syndromes like carpal tunnel or arthritis, as well as motion reducing injuries. Length is 29 inches and weight is just over 1.5 pounds. To increase your leverage with a wide variety of tools, Gardenscape also has straight and D-Grip Handle grips, which transfer easily between tools and adjust to any position. Other long handled and lightweight wide-comb rakes are available at www.handhelpers.com.

WV AgrAbility Announces New Employee

WV AgrAbility would like to announce that Stacy Miller is the new Information Specialist for the West Virginia AgrAbility program, which was recently awarded a new four-year grant. Among the grant's goals are developing new promotional materials (including Spanish versions), developing public awareness activities for West Virginia's agricultural communities and expanding the program's web-based resources.

Stacy received her bachelor's degree in English and Environmental Studies at St. Mary's College of Maryland, where she conducted oral history research on Southern Maryland's transitioning tobacco farmers. She served as an AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer in Maryland before managing a cut flower program at the Blue Ridge Center for Environmental Stewardship in Purcellville, Virginia. Stacy received her M.S. in Agricultural and Environmental Education from West Virginia University; her thesis was titled "Characteristics of Farmers' Market Vendors in West Virginia." Stacy also currently serves as the co-manager of the Spruce Street Farmers' Market in Morgantown.

You can reach Stacy by calling 304-293-4692 ext. 1185 or e-mail agrability@hsc.wvu.edu

AgrAbility Brochure Now in Spanish
Between 1997 and 2002, the number of West Virginia farms operated by Spanish, Hispanic or Latino farmers increased by more than 75% (USDA 2004). For this growing group of farmers and the educators and agencies with whom they work, the WV AgrAbility brochure is now available in Spanish. To order copies of the Spanish version, please call 304-293-4692, ext. 1185 or e-mail agrability@hsc.wvu.edu

Arthritis Guide Available
According to the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, our state has the highest incidence of arthritis in the United States. Thirty-seven percent of West Virginia's adults have been diagnosed with arthritis or other joint problems, and 32% have said that arthritis limits their work activities. If you are a farmer or market gardener with arthritis, please call 304-293-4692 ext. 1185 or email agrability@hsc.wvu.edu to request a free copy of Arthritis and Agriculture, a 23-page guide to understanding and living with arthritis. The guide offers tips on simplifying work tasks and protecting your joints while working on the farm.

Changes to Medicare in 2006

Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Coverage

Beginning January 1, 2006, Medicare will cover prescription drugs. The new change to Medicare is the addition of a Part D plan that will now offer insurance coverage for prescription drugs. This new plan is intended to help Medicare participants with the cost of their prescription drugs. It will offer many people who are eligible an opportunity to save money on their prescriptions.

All Part D prescription plans are offered by private companies that have been approved by Medicare. (See next page for providers in West Virginia.) Enrollment in a plan is voluntary. However, there will be no drug benefits for an individual who chooses not to participate. Delaying enrollment could cause a lifetime penalty resulting in higher premiums if you enroll after May 15, 2006.

Who is affected?

People who are on--or plan to be on-- Medicare in 2006 who have no prescription drug coverage or have drug coverage that is not as good as the new Medicare plans

If you have a prescription drug plan now, you will receive a letter from your current plan telling you if your coverage is at least as good as Medicare's. If your current plan is not as good as Medicare's, you should consider enrolling in a Medicare prescription plan.

People who are Medicare beneficiaries and receive free or low-cost drugs from pharmaceutical company patient assistance programs

After December 31, 2005, Medicare beneficiaries cannot receive free or lower cost prescription drugs from pharmaceutical company's assistance programs. People in the following programs may choose a Medicare prescription plan for coverage.

People who:

• Are on SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
• Qualify for Medicare and Medicaid (Dual Eligibles)
• Are in a Medicare Savings Program - These people will automatically qualify for financial assistance. They do not have to apply.

Dual Eligibility
People who are on Medicaid and Medicare are referred to as "dual eligibles." These people will automatically be assigned to a prescription drug plan but may change to a plan that is better suited for them. Medicaid will no longer pay for prescription drugs after January 1, 2006 for dual eligibles. If you have not received a letter about your new plan, call Medicare at 800-633-4227 or view the plans on-line at www.cms.hhs.gov/medicarereform/lir.asp

Choice Options

Option #1: You may select a Medicare Part D plan (for prescription drugs) along with a traditional Medicare Part B plan (called "fee-for-service"). You'll pay monthly premiums for both Part B and Part D. Sign up by May 15, 2006, to avoid the late enrollment premium penalty.

Option #2: You may select a Medicare Part C plan called Medicare Advantage that includes prescription drugs. Medicare Advantage plans are managed plans that combine coverage for prescription drugs, health care professionals, hospitals and other services for one monthly premium. Make sure you choose a plan that includes coverage for prescription drugs, some plans may not.

Option #3: You may do nothing if you have prescription drug coverage from another source, if it is equal to, or better than Medicare's. Expect a letter from your current insurer this fall about your coverage compared to Medicare's. If your coverage is not as good as Medicare's, you must choose a Medicare plan or risk a lifetime premium penalty.
Information adapted from "Inside MS" October-November 2005

Prescription Plans in West Virginia

People with Medicare in West Virginia will be able to get prescription drug coverage in January, through their choice of either a newly approved stand-alone prescription drug plan that works with traditional Medicare, or a Medicare Advantage plan that offers drug coverage and other benefits. In West Virginia, 19 organizations will offer stand-alone prescription drug plans, including one with a premium of less than $20 a month. People with Medicare in West Virginia can also get drug coverage with additional benefits and even lower total out-of-pocket costs by enrolling in Medicare Advantage plans.

Stand-Alone Prescription Drug Plan Organizations in West Virginia:

• Aetna Life Insurance Company
• PacifiCare Life and Health Insurance Company
• American Progressive Life and Health Insurance Company
• Marquette National Life Insurance
• Pennsylvania Life Insurance Co.
• Avalon Health, Ltd.
• Connecticut General Life Insurance
• Coventry Health and Life Insurance Company
• Highmark Senior Resources Inc.
• Humana Insurance Company
• Medco Containment Life Insurance
• MemberHealth, Inc.
• QCC Ins Co D/B/A/ AmeriHealth
• RxAmerica, LLC
• Silverscript Insurance Company
• Sterling Life Insurance Company
• UniCare
• United American Insurance
• United Health Care Insurance
• UPMC Health Plan
• WellCare Health Plans

Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plan Organizations in West Virginia:

• Humana, Inc.
• Coventry
• Health Plan of the Upper Ohio Valley
• Mountain State Blue Cross Blue Shield

To find a plan that works for you, make a note of your current drug coverage, if any, prescription drugs and your preferences about pharmacies or additional coverage. Medicare beneficiaries in West Virginia can also get personalized, local assistance by calling their West Virginia State Health Insurance Assistance Program at 877-987-4463.

Standard Definitions

Premiums
Premiums are the monthly charges you pay to participate in a plan. For most plans, your premium payments will be about $37 per month (about $445 per year). In addition, the government will contribute about $1,600 per year towards the cost of your premium. In future years, costs may go up. For your convenience, you can have your premiums deducted automatically from your monthly Social Security check or you can be billed by the plan you choose.

Deductibles
Deductible is the term for the amount you pay before your insurance starts paying. In the standard Medicare plan, your deductible ends when the amount you have paid for eligible drugs reaches $250.

Co-insurance
Co-insurance is the term for splitting costs on a percentage basis. For example, in the standard Medicare plan designed by Congress, you pay 25 percent of the prescription cost and the plan pays 75 percent until the combined total reaches $2,000. Some plans may have flat fees for each prescription instead of a percentage.

Coverage gap
Coverage gap describes when the plan makes no contribution to drug costs and you must pay 100 percent for drugs out of your pocket until you reach a pre-set maximum. You will hear some people call this step "the doughnut hole," or "gap." You will still have access to discounts on the price of your drugs.

Catastrophic coverage
Catastrophic coverage applies when your drug costs are very high. It begins after you have paid $3,600 out of your own pocket for drugs in a year. Under this coverage, the plan pays most costs with no upper limit. You pay a small portion, such as five percent, or a small flat amount for each prescription.

Help for People with Lower Incomes

Help is available for people with lower incomes and few savings or other assets. If you think you cannot afford a Part D plan, find out if you qualify for help. People whose income is under 150% of the federal poverty level and have limited assets, will receive a subsidy to help with costs, and access prescriptions through a patient assistance program (PAP.)

Depending on the level of need:
- Your premiums may be reduced or eliminated - Your deductibles may be reduced or eliminated - Your co-insurance and co-pay amounts may be reduced - Your coverage gap may be eliminated

Who is eligible?
Eligibility depends on your income (money you receive from retirement benefits or other money that you would report for tax purposes). In some cases, the government also reviews your assets (for example, property besides your home that you own).

How to apply
You will need to fill out an application form to apply for assistance. You may receive this form in the mail, or you may call your local Social Security Administration office or go to www.socialsecurity.gov

This information is adapted from the United Healthcare Services website at www.medicarerxinfosource.com

Other Medicare Information

Avoid Scams:
As with many new changes going on in the world, the new prescription coverage plans have allowed people to come up with new scams. Please read the following information to protect yourself from Medicare scams.

• Marketing guidelines prohibit Medicare Advantage plans, Prescription Drug Plans (PDPs) or their representatives from making door-to-door sales, calls or sending unsolicited e-mails.
• If plans and their representatives phone beneficiaries to offer plan information, plans must comply with the National Do-Not-Call Registry, honor "do not call again" requests and abide by federal and state calling hours and any other requirements.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will investigate any complaints made by you. If you suspect a problem call CMS or call 800-MEDICARE.

CMS will take appropriate action against plans found to be non-compliant, committing fraud or otherwise violating state or federal laws. Action may include requiring corrective action plans, imposing sanctions that may close the plan to new enrollees, imposing civil monetary penalties or referring plans to the Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General or to other federal or state law enforcement agencies.

What Consumers Should Know:

To protect against fraud or unwanted solicitations, consumers should be aware:

• Do not to give out personal information, such as Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, and credit card numbers, because plans are not allowed to request such personal information in their marketing activities.
• Plans cannot call outside of certain hours. Federal rules do not allow telemarketers to call before 8:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m.
• To stop repeated and unwanted sales calls, you simply need to say 'stop.' Plans are required to honor "do not call again" requests. To register for the federal "do not call" list to prevent all unsolicited marketing calls, go to www.donotcall.gov or call 888-382-1222.
• For additional information about drug plan options from an independent source, beneficiaries can go to www.medicare.gov or call 800-MEDICARE, or seek help from your local senior services center or AARP chapter to get personalized information about which drug plan may be best for you.

Other prescription help:

Rx for West Virginia
Rx for West Virginia enables individuals to call one place to find out if they, or someone they know qualify for help. There are more than 250 programs to help families afford their prescription drugs. The programs contain more than 1,200 different prescription drugs. Medications for asthma, diabetes, heartburn and cholesterol are just some of the prescriptions eligible patients can get for free or at discounted prices.
Call 877-982-7948 or go to www.RxforWV.org for more information.

Golden Mountaineer Discount Card
West Virginians age 60 and older are eligible for the Golden Mountaineer Discount Card, which is accepted by many pharmacies in West Virginia.
The Golden Mountaineer Discount Card Program provides discounts through a network of participating pharmacies on many drugs commonly used by seniors. The card will help West Virginia seniors, especially those without prescription drug insurance, to lower their out-of-pocket drug costs.
The card may also be used at participating retailers and businesses, is free to seniors and has no income restrictions.
For more information, visit www.state.wv.us/seniorservices or call 877-987-3646.

West Virginia Medicaid Office (Bureau for Medical Services)
West Virginia's Medical Assistance Program, Medicaid, pays most of the cost of medical care for people who otherwise could not afford it. Medicaid is a state and federal assistance program, which covers medical costs for eligible individuals of all ages. Medicaid is administered by the Bureau for Medical Services, West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR).
Eligibility for Medicaid is determined by each local DHHR office. There are over fifty different ways to become eligible for Medicaid. If you think you might be eligible for Medicaid, you may file an application at the DHHR office in the county where you live. Individuals receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are eligible for the Medicaid Program and automatically receive a medical card from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources.
For more information, visit www.wvdhhr.org/bms/ or call 304-558-1700.

Access to Benefits Coalition (ABC)
The Access to Benefits Coalition (ABC) is dedicated to ensuring that Medicare beneficiaries with lower incomes know about and can make the best use of all available resources for reducing the costs of prescription drugs, including the Medicare-approved drug discount card program and the Medicare prescription drug benefit (starting in 2006).
The goal of the Coalition is to educate Medicare beneficiaries with lower incomes, help them make informed choices about prescription savings programs and help them enroll in prescription savings programs.
For more information, visit www.accesstobenefits.org or call 202-479-1200.

The Partnership for Prescription Assistance
The Partnership for Prescription Assistance provides a single point of access to more than 275 public and private patient assistance programs, including more than 150 programs offered by pharmaceutical companies. Many people are eligible for public programs based on their age or income. The mission of the Partnership for Prescription Assistance is to increase awareness of these programs and boost enrollment of those who are eligible.
To access the Partnership for Prescription Assistance, visit www.pparx.org or call 888-477-2669.

West Virginia Senior Health Insurance Network (SHINE)
SHINE's mission is to educate the public about Medicare and other health insurance issues and to counsel Medicare beneficiaries (whether they are seniors or persons with disabilities) and their families. SHINE counselors are located in each of the West Virginia Bureau of Senior Services Centers and can provide accurate and objective counseling, assistance and advocacy relating to Medicare, Medicare+Choice, Medicare Assistance (buy-in) programs, private health insurance, including Medigap and long-term care policies and related health coverage plans. They also provide information regarding prescription drug assistance programs.
Counseling is provided in one-on-one confidential sessions and includes specific problem-solving, support for individual decision making and referrals to appropriate agencies. Information and advice is free.
For more information, visit www.state.wv.us/seniorservices/Shine/, call 877-987-4463, or call your local senior center.

WVATS Newsletter

Co-editors: Jamie Hayhurst-Marshall jhayhurst@hsc.wvu.edu  and Melina Danko msissum@hsc.wvu.edu - Center for Excellence in Disabilities at West Virginia University Publications

Editorial Committee: Jeanne Grimm, Monica Andis, Laura Werner, Lori Risk, Melina Danko. Layout: Kim Palumbo

All printed materials produced by WVATS are available in Braille, electronic format, cassette tape and large print.

This publication was supported by funds from the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR), Department of Education, grant number H224a20011. The lead agency is the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services. Contents of the newsletter are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official view of the Department of Education or the Center for Excellence in Disabilities.

Web site address: www.cedwvu.org/programs/wvats/

Center for Excellence in Disabilities
West Virginia University
959 Hartman Run Road
Morgantown, WV 26505
Phone: 304-293-4692
877-724-8244 or TTY: 800-518-1448
Email: contact@cedwvu.org