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We hope the following information will help you deal with your
head and brain injury questions and issues.
INTRODUCTION
The following Resource Information Guide is not endorsed by any
particular agency or organization. It is made available by the
Alamo Head
Injury
Association.
The
purpose of this book is to provide assistance and information to
brain injury survivors and their families.
A brain injury survivor and family may experience many changes
and needs as a result of the crisis. This book is written in general
terms, and is not intended to provide all the answers but rather
to be only a guide to available assistance. Since head injury effects
are different with every individual, the resources and services
listed here may not apply to everyone.
Finally, this resource guide is not intended in any way to be
a substitute for the services of legal counsel, nor is it a recommendation
of services provided by the named organizations.
As you begin advocating for your loved one as he starts the road
to recovery, we hope you find the following information helpful:
WHAT IS BRAIN INJURY
Serious brain injuries usually result in prolonged
loss of consciousness or coma. While it may be brief, lasting only
a few minutes, it may extend to days or weeks. If the period of
coma is brief, recovery to full or nearly full function is likely;
but as time in coma lengthens, emergence to a fully alert state
can take a long time. Intellectual impairment, speech problems,
behavioral disorders and related physical disabilities can become
realities. The individual and his family face a period of rehabilitation
that can extend for years.
Most brain injuries happen as a result of accidents but similar
problems can result from conditions such as encephalitis, lack
of oxygen to the brain, and cerebral hemorrhage. AHIA was established
to serve any individual who was functioning independently prior
to a brain injury and is now suffering from any or all of these
devastating disabilities. Our concerns span the entire spectrum
from coma to returning to the community.
For most disabilities, improved medical care causes a decrease
in the number of people with that specific disability. Because
of the tremendous advances in medical technology and emergency
acute care, the numbers of persons who survive a brain injury continues
to increase. People with brain injuries are becoming the singles
largest disability group in our nation. Brain injury is a life-long
disability. It does not go away with time and there is no cure.
GENERAL INFORMATION
If you face brain injury issues, immediately contact the case
manager or social worker at your hospital. Discuss with him/her
the patient's
progress
and
potential
needs upon discharge. Get help in identifying supports and services
that may be available after discharge.
Apply for SSI/Medicaid. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is
a program of the Social Security Administration that provides monthly
payments to people who are, among other qualifiers, disabled and
have limited income and/or resources. Parents need not be eligible
themselves in order for a disabled child to receive SSI. If eligible
for SSI, the patient usually can get Medicaid, health insurance,
which is tied into the SSI benefits package. Call 1-800-772-1213,
or contact your local Social Security office for more information.
Apply for SSDI/Medicare. Social Security Disability Insurance
(SSDI) provides monthly payments for workers and eligible members
of their families if an illness or injury is expected to keep the
worker from working for a year or longer. Medicare is a health
insurance program tied into SSDI. A new beneficiary must wait 24
months after SSDI benefits begin to receive Medicare coverage,
in addition to the 5-month waiting period after the disability
onset. Enrollment in the Medicare program is automatic for SSDI
recipients.
Visit www.txstars.net. (The State of Texas Assistance and Referral
System) is a self-screener that helps Texans identify the human
services benefits they may be eligible to receive.
DHS
PROGRAMS
The Texas Department of Human Services (DHS) has the following
programs:
TEX-CARE PARTNERSHIP
If the patient is under the age of 19, this program provides health
insurance to eligible children through Medicaid or the Children's
Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Call 1-800-647-6588 to apply.
COMPREHENSIVE REHABILITATION SERVICES (CRS)
This program provides payment for inpatient comprehensive medical
rehabilitation; outpatient services such as occupational, physical,
speech and cognitive therapies; and post-acute TBI services to
help with injury related cognitive difficulties. Texas Rehabilitation
Commission (TRC) determines eligibility. Call 1-800-628-5155.
VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION (VR)
This program provides a variety of services designed to help prepare
for, find, and keep employment.
FAMILY CARE/PRIMARY HOME CARE
This program provides services that help people perform daily activities
that they cannot do themselves because of physical or mental
impairment. DHS contracts with other agencies to provide such
services as assisting with personal care, performing household
tasks, preparing meals, shopping, and taking people when they
need to leave their homes for such things as medical or dental
appointments.
COMMUNITY LIVING ASSISTANCE AND SUPPORT SERVICES (CLASS)
This program is for any age if qualifying condition or disability
occurs before the age of 22. Program provides home and community
based services such as respite care, nursing services, habilitation,
physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, psychological
services, specialized therapies, adaptive aids/supplies, home
modifications, and independent case management. Call 1-877-438-5658.
COMMUNITY BASED ALTERNATIVE (CBA)
This program is for patients age 21 or older that require RN/LVN
nursing care. CBA provides home and community-based services
to aged and disabled adults as cost-effective alternatives to
nursing facility care. Services include personal assistance,
adaptive aids, medical supplies, adult foster care, assisted
living/residential care, nursing, rehabilitative therapies, respite
care, emergency response, and minor home modifications. DHS determines
eligibility. Call 1-888-834-7406.
IN-HOME AND FAMILY SUPPORT PROGRAM
This program provides subsidies for the purchase of goods or services
that will help relieve some of the physical, emotional, and economic
stresses on families who have members with disabilities living
at home. People with physical disabilities (or their family)
choose and buy the services that will help them stay in their
own home and community. Call 1-888-834-7406.
It is very important to talk with your hospital case manager about
services for which the patient may be eligible. Apply Immediately.
Some programs allow immediate access while others may have a waiting
list. Contact each agency directly for information on any additional
programs that may be available.
EQUIPMENT
Medical equipment may be purchased or rented at any equipment
company and paid by cash, private insurance or government programs.
The following agencies may help in obtaining equipment or other
supplies. Your social worker can help with specific information
or making referrals to these agencies.
Department of Veteran Affairs
1-800-827-1000 or local 617-5184
If you are a veteran you may be eligible for certain items. If
you are currently a VA in-patient or outpatient see your physician.
Medicaid
1-800-252-8263 or local 337-3550
Provides limited financial assistance for equipment that is medically
necessary and ordered by your physician.
Medicare
1-800-772-1213
For qualified individuals, if ordered by your physician, Medicare
can help pay for: durable medical equipment such as oxygen, wheelchairs,
and other medically necessary equipment that is prescribed for
use in your home. Will also help pay for surgical dressings, splints,
casts, and similar medical supplies.
Project Mend
223-6363
Serves as the connecting link to collect donated equipment and
then makes it available to those who most need it on a loan basis.
Must be disabled or meet low-income requirements to receive equipment.
Chronically Ill and Disabled Children's Services (CIDC)
949-2155
Provides coverage for medical equipment to individuals under the
age of 21 and approved for CIDC.
TRANSPORTATION
Transportation is an essential part of outpatient treatment and
follow-up care. In certain circumstances, you may need assistance
to and from medical appointments. The agencies listed below may
provide transportation when you are absolutely unable to make other
arrangements. Since their resources are limited and in great demand,
riding and waiting times can be lengthy. Unless otherwise specified,
these agencies require several days advance notice and may have
long waiting lists. You might contact neighborhood churches or
community centers to see if any transportation assistance is available.
Disabled American Veterans Suboffice
617-5300
Transportation for certain veterans to and from Audie L. Murphy
for scheduled medical treatment.
Community Council of South Central Texas
1-830-249-8643
Provides outreach, information and referral and emergency assistance
in the areas of utilities, food, housing, transportation and medical
needs.
Department of Community Initiatives
207-6680
Provides transportation for medical and business purposes and to
the grocery store.
Medical Transportation (TDH)
1-877-633-8747
Provides medical transportation services to Medicaid eligible.
Provides services to Medicaid medical appointments. Means: van
service/sedans (door to door), free VIA Trans tickets or free bus
tickets.
University Health System Mini-Bus
358-3858 or 358-4000
An hourly shuttle bus transports patients between University Health
Center-Downtown, University Hospital South Texas Medical Center,
University Family Health Center Southwest, and University Center
for Community Health. No fees.
VIA Trans
362-5050
You must be certified by your physician as unable to ride public
transportation for medical reasons. Call 362-2140 for an application
or check with your hospital social worker. At least 10 working
days needed to determine eligibility. One week scheduling notice
required. $1.00 one way, plus $5.00 if outside VIA service area.
HOUSING
Fisher House
673-7500
Provides lodging, food, and services to families of patients at
Wilford Hall Medical Center for treatment of a serious illness
or injury. Must reside permanently outside Bexar County. No fees.
Hospital Welcome Lodge
341-4746
Provides temporary housing for patients and/or their families who
must travel to San Antonio for treatment. Laundry and kitchen provided.
There is a fee of $25.00 per room per night or $149.00 per week.
Fee is negotiable. Reservations can only be made through your hospital
social worker.
Housing Authority of Bexar County
225-0071
Administers Section 8 Housing Assistance Program for families needing
assistance in paying rent.
Housing Authority of San Antonio
220-3200
Assists families with rent payments. Family's portion based on
30 percent of income.
Ronald McDonald House
223-6014
Provides a home-like atmosphere where families can stay while their
children are being treated in San Antonio. Requirements: ill children
living outside of Bexar County and are 18 years of age or younger.
Must be referred by social worker or doctor.
SUPPORT SERVICES
Alamo Head Injury Association
614-4323
Support group meets the 4th Wednesday of the month from 7:00-8:30
PM at the Easter Seal Building located at 2203 Babcock Rd.
Brain Injury Association, Texas
1-800-392-0040
BIAUSA (Brain Injury Association- National)
1-800-444-6443
COUNSELING
Community Counseling Service of Our Lady of the Lake University
434-1054
Provides counseling services to individuals, couples, families
and groups in the San Antonio and surrounding area. Fees based
upon household income and family size. Insurance accepted.
Family Life Center
436-3113
Provides therapy and family life education for individuals, couples
and families. Services available to anyone. Fees based upon income
of client.
Family Service Association of San Antonio
226-3391
Provides counseling, support groups, homemaker/home health services
to people of all ages.
Texas Department of Human Services (TDHS)
333-2004
TDHS will refer to services in the community with fees based on
a sliding scale.
SERVICES FOR
CHILDREN
Children's Association for Maximum Potential (C.A.M.P.)
292-3566
Provides recreation, respite, rehabilitation and reorientation
for children with severe developmental disabilities or chronic
illnesses.
The Children's Emergency Shelter of San Antonio
227-8959
Emergency residential care is provided to children 12 years old
and younger whose families are experiencing a crisis or emergency.
Chronically Ill & Disabled Children (C.I.D.C.)
1-800-252-8023 or local 949-2155
Provides financial assistance for the medical care of eligible
persons under the age of 21.
Social Security Administration
1-800-772-1213
S.S.I. (Supplemental Security Income) Provides monthly benefits
for families with a child who is disabled. Eligibility depends
on the number of people in the family and gross income.
Special Education Department
Contact your school district's Special Education Department. Homebound
teacher or classes to meet the special needs of your child.
FOOD & NUTRITION
TDHS - Food Stamp Program
229-9200
Helps eligible households secure a more nutritious diet through
use of food stamps. Some households may qualify for expedited service.
Must live in the county where applying; be a US citizen or have
eligible permanent status; meet income criteria.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
DCI, City of San Antonio -Community Action Division
207-7830
Provides services designed to fulfill immediate home and family
needs of disadvantaged residents of San Antonio and Bexar County.
No fees.
DCI, City of San Antonio - Community Action Division
207-7830
Provides comprehensive social services through various programs
to assist residents of San Antonio and Bexar County.
Disability Public Assistance
207-7830
Provides grants to help a person (or couple with no minor
Children) disabled for over 31 days. Eligible: residents and/or
legal aliens of the City except as an attendant for child care
or a sick person, no adult family member can be employable. A doctor's
statement is required to verify the disability. No outside income
is allowable.
Temporary Public Assistance
207-7830
Provides grants to families with dependent children while an application
for Aid to Families with Dependent Children is pending with Texas
Department of Human Services, and/or when Social Security benefits
are pending.
Social Security Administration (SSA)
1-800-772-1213
SSA provides 3 benefit programs: Supplemental Security Income,
Social Security Disability, and Social Security for Retirement.
These programs must be applied for through SSA. They may take six
months to twelve months before actual payments are received. Many
times applicants must go through an appeal process and possibly
seek legal assistance. The eligibility criteria is established
through SSA and determined by financial and medical personnel in
the administration. It is necessary to contact Social Security
to determine this criteria and start the application process.
Social Security Disability (SSD)
Disability benefits are available to individuals who have worked
and paid into social security for a certain number of years,
and are now unable to work for at least twelve months due to
illness. SSD will provide a monthly check. It will also provide
Medicare coverage after you have received a check for 24 consecutive
months.
Social Security for Retirement
This program is available to persons age 62 and older regardless
of medical status.
Supplemental Security Income
SSI is available to persons who are age 65 or older, blind or disabled
and meet the financial criteria established by SSA. SSI will
provide a monthly check and Medicaid, both retroactive to the
date of the application process. Medicaid may also be retroactive
3 months prior to the application date as it relates to the disabling
illness. Medicaid covers limited hospitalization, home health
care, nursing homes, transportation, and 3 prescriptions a month.
Eligible children may receive additional Medicaid benefits.
Texas Department of Human Services (TDHS)
655-8760
TDHS provides financial and social services for children, families,
elderly and the disabled. Please call for information and location
of offices. Their programs include:
Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANP)
Offers financial assistance to families with low incomes and dependent
children. Call for information about the office, which serves
your zip code.
Food Stamps
Food Stamps are available for those who are unemployed or have
low incomes. Eligibility is based on family size and net income.
Consideration may be given to the amount of money paid for medical
expenses.
Medicaid
Adults who have minor children (under 18) in home and meet financial
criteria may be eligible for Medicaid to cover hospitalization.
Minor children may be eligible for Medicaid based on parent's
income level. Medicaid services include hospital and doctor care,
hearing aids, glasses, prescriptions, transportation, nursing
home care, and reimbursement of medical expenses in the three
months prior to application. Contact TDHS for more complete information
and application process.
Qualified Medicare Beneficial (QMB)
QMB is a program that will provide limited Medicaid coverage to
adults who are 65 or older, receiving Medicare, considered disabled
and meet financial criteria.
Department of Veterans Affairs
1-800-827-1000 or local at 617-5300 or 617-5184
VA medical center admissions offices are the immediate source for
information regarding medical care eligibility, admissions procedure
and scheduling. The surest way to obtain current information on
VA benefits and claim procedures is to call the nearest VA regional
office (210-699-2302). Counselors can answer questions about benefits
eligibility and application procedures and refer you, when necessary,
to other VA facilities.
LEGAL ASSISTANCE
Advocacy, Incorporated
1-800-252-9108
Their mission is to advocate for, protect and advance the legal,
human, and service rights of people with disabilities.
Bexar County Legal Aid Association
227-0111
Provides general legal services in civil cases. No fees. Initial
application may be made in person or by phone.
Bexar County Dispute Resolution Center
335-2128
Promotes the resolution of disputes through mediation and provides
an alternative to litigation. No fees. Must be a resident of Bexar
County.
Jewish Family and Children's Service/Guardianship Services
302-6920
Provides assessment, case management and assistance in establishing
court ordered and monitored guardianships to protect people who
cannot provide for their personal and/or financial affairs.
San Antonio Community Law Center
271-9595
Provides legal services for those ineligible for Legal Aid.
Texas Rural Legal Aid, Inc
222-2478
Provides free legal services to individuals in rural counties.
Must reside in Comal, Guadalupe, Karnes, Live Oak, McMullin or
Wilson Counties.
HOME HEALTH
Home health agencies provide health care in the home environment
utilizing nurse, nurses aides, physical therapists, occupational
therapists, speech therapists, and medical social workers.
City of San Antonio Homemaker Program
207-7186
Provides services to some people who are ineligible for TDHS assistance.
Family Service Association of San Antonio, Inc(Homemaker/Home
Health/Respite)
225-1582
This in-home service targets those who neither qualifies for public
assistance nor can afford private care. The homemaker prepares
meals, does light housework, laundry and marketing, runs errands,
and takes clients to medical appointments. Certified home health
aides provide personal care such as help with bathing, grooming,
and dressing. Respite provides time off for the individual or family
member who is the caretaker. Fees depend on family income.
VOCATIONAL SERVICES
Traumatic brain injuries can sometimes limit functioning such
that an individual is unable to return to his former job. The individual
may need to consider on-the-job modifications, job restructuring,
or explore other employment interest appropriate to present skills
and abilities.
Texas Rehabilitation Commission (TRC)
805-2200
TRC trains and retrains the disabled. Services other than diagnostic
counseling and guidance or job placement are based on economic
needs. Services include prosthetics, physical restoration to correct
disabling conditions and in some instances room and board during
training. Age requirement is 16 minimum. Eligibility for services
is based on a) the individual must have a physical or mental disability,
which constitutes or results in a substantial handicap to employment,
and b) vocational rehabilitation services must reasonably be expected
to benefit the individual in terms of employability. Applicant
should contact the office located in closest proximity to his/her
home.
San Antonio Field Office Central - 126 E. Durango, Suite A Phone:
225-3281
San Antonio Field Office North - 1015 Jackson-Keller, Suite 103
Phone: 349-2684
San Antonio Field Office Northeast - 14145 Nacogdoches,
Suite 11 Phone: 650-0943
San Antonio Field Office South - 941 Pleasanton Rd.
Phone: 924-9205
San Antonio Field Office West - 5309 Wurzbach
Phone: 509-6568
San Antonio Medical Center Field Office - 7400 Louis Pasteur,
Suite 111 Phone: 614-5247
San Antonio Regional Office - 8610 Broadway, Suite 310
Phone: 805-2200
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