Michelle Phoenix:
Some ideas for accessible and safe supports for people with disabilities: 1. Use phone or video consults when possible. Availability may vary by service and agency, call your providers or check social feeds + website to know what you can access remotely. If in home supports are needed (e.g., nursing, PSW) ask about the # of clients your provider is seeing (1 would be ideal). Check and advocate for proper use of PPE. If you are responsible for securing PPE and access is difficult be vocal, this needs to be addressed.
If hospital care is needed check “visitor” polices. Policies may differ by province and hospital. Caregivers are partners in care that can increase care quality, communication and safety. A campaign exists to increase caregiver access here: https://family-alliance.com/equitable-access/.
I hope families know they are not alone. Researchers, families, policy makers, service organizations need to collaborate to improve access to safe care. Thanks for raising the question. My detailed thoughts are here: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/children-disabilities-coronavirus-1.5571099.
