L G Mogk
Henry Ford Health System, Visual Rehabilitation and Research Center, Grosse Pointe, Michigan, United States
Background. Current services and the delivery system for rehabilitation to more than 100,000 seniors in the State of Michigan with visual impairments is insufficient to meet the need. The Strategic Planning Group for Visual Rehabilitation in Michigan was convened to develop a statewide rational, coordinated delivery system, inspired by the regional system in The Netherlands.
Methods. Fifteen representatives from State agencies, private non-profit organizations, and educational and medical institutions providing visual rehabilitation and aging services formed a working group. The mission, objectives and goals were established, research and budget committees were created, and grant applications were submitted to foundations for funding to support the work of the Group.
Results. Demographic studies are underway to assess the distribution and needs of visually impaired seniors and the services currently in place, which will provide the basis for planning to meet the goals of: (1) designing a service and delivery plan, (2) definining funding mechanisms to support the plan, (3) assuring its implementation, and (4) assuring patients' and clients' access to services.
Conclusions. For the first time in this State of 8 million, representatives from all corners of visual rehabilitation and aging have come together, overcoming turf, training, and trust issues, to jointly address the needs of the present and expanding population of seniors with vision loss. This cooperative effort may serve as a model for other states.
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