Arkansas COVID-19 Response Project
Project Description:
This project was initiated to address the needs of individuals with disabilities and older adults relative to the COVID-19 pandemic. A multi-agency steering committee was created at the beginning and continues to guide activities of the project. The project continually surveys the needs of people with disabilities and older Arkansans, via this committee, and continues to engage in activities identified as priorities. Identified priorities include access to PPE; technological supports for tele-health, shopping and social connectedness; funding support for unanticipated costs such as professional cleaning services following positive cases; support/resources for trauma-informed care for individuals and service providers; and workforce issues.
The collaborative partnerships developed through this project, in particular with the Arkansas Department of Health, have led to additional opportunities to increase/improve access for people with disabilities in the state. While the pandemic highlighted the extreme inequities in the health-care and community service systems for people with disabilities and elderly Arkansans, such inequities must be identified before they can be addressed.
Keyword(s):
COVID-19, Vaccination
Core Function(s):
Developing & Disseminating Information, Continuing Education/Community Training
Area of Emphasis
Health-Related Activities, Other
Target Audience:
Professionals and Para-Professionals, Family Members/Caregivers, Adults with Disabilities, Children/Adolescents with Disabilities/SHCN, General Public
Unserved or Under-served Populations:
Racial or Ethnic Minorities, Disadvantaged Circumstances, Limited English, Geographic Areas, Rural/Remote
Primary Target Audience Geographic Descriptor:
State
COVID-19 Related Data:
Yes
