ABLE SC: Our statement on COVID-19

Able South Carolina continues to work closely with health officials, government agencies, and community organizations to monitor information about the coronavirus (COVID-19). We are taking serious precautions to maintain a safe environment and protect the health and well-being of our consumers, staff, and community. As always, we are committed to being here for our community. Therefore, Able SC’s services are available as usual with additional remote options. 

Able SC recommends that you take the steps necessary to protect yourself and follow the guidance from SC Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as it is released. In addition to the steps needed to protect yourself from COVID-19, additional tips and information for people with disabilities are as follows:  

Additional Tips/Information:

• People with disabilities have the same rights to services and healthcare as everyone else, including choosing who provides assistance with their individual needs. These rights remain the same during any public health emergency or declared pandemic. Contact Able SC if you need assistance with navigating any barriers with accessing treatment, testing, and home and community based services. 
•  During this rapidly changing situation, access to information is vital. Messages ranging from steps for prevention to news of community spread must be made accessible for everyone. 
•  People with and without disabilities must stay rooted in the facts. Minimizing the risks and inciting panic are equally damaging and distract from reasonable preparation. We are encouraging individuals to focus on the facts that are being issued by trusted sources, such as SC DHEC and CDC. 
•  Create a back-up plan if you require assistance with living independently and your supporters become ill, or if there are office closures. If you provide care to others, ensure that you also have a back-up plan.  
•  Review your plan for alternate transportation in the event of service interruptions. Public transportation, taxis, rideshare, and other transportation services are a lifeline for people with disabilities who do not drive. 
•  If self-quarantine is preferred or recommended, preparing to stay indoors for fourteen days may be outside of the norm for you. Contact your healthcare providers to discuss options for obtaining extended supplies of medical supplies and prescriptions. Stock up on other important supplies such as food, toilet paper, hygiene products, and cleaning supplies. 
•  Connect with your local service providers now to make a plan so you are prepared for any potential closures.
•  Contact your health care and insurance providers to discuss your options for obtaining any extra medical supplies and prescriptions you need. 
•  With any illness, medical help will be critical. Seek treatment as needed, and call Able SC if you find yourself referred to an institution like a nursing home or other institutional settings. You have the right to decide where you live. 

  

The disability community is a population that faces higher risk of negative health outcomes from COVID-19. Below are two great resources to read more on the considerations of those risks: ACL’s COVID-19 Statement and this Forbes Article on COVID-19 and People with Disabilities.

 
Able SC is here and ready to assist our community. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our offices at 803-779-5121 or by email at advocacy@able-sc.org.