A BRIDGE TO THE COMMUNITY New Start CLHFs is comprised of single-family residences, each nestled in a quiet neighborhood. As the first step following medical stabilization, the client is transferred to one of these homes. No more than six clients share a home at a time. Each residence offers a friendly, family atmosphere and an opportunity for individuals with similar disabilities a chance to share experiences, ideas, and resources. It’s a striking difference from a sterile hospital environment. Highly specialized and licensed nursing care is provided around the clock. Guided by staff, the client and their significant others develop an individualized program of goals and objectives. Clients are assisted in formulating a discharge plan, the outcome being a successful transition back into the community. The New Start Independence Training Program Our unique program provides a complete system of healthcare for the alert but otherwise catastrophically disabled person. From the onset of injury or illness, New Start begins planning care for the future with the goal of retiring clients to their own home with or without a support system. Focused on a community environment, program participants receive their training and full rehabilitation services from highly trained healthcare professionals who are specialized in the care of individuals with spinal cord injuries and various neuromuscular disorders. Many of our clients are ventilator dependent. In addition, New Start’s experienced personnel are prepared to train anyone the client might choose as a caregiver. The primary goal of the Independence Training Program is curtailing the cost of long-term care for a unique patient population. Utilizing a detailed care plan/cost management approach, New Start facilitates the movement of each patient through the program to the least costly level of care. A key component of cost containment for this diagnosis is the elimination of future illnesses and hospitalizations. Our graduated clients understand their physical needs and know how to remain healthy. New Start also removes any barriers that prevent reintegration into the community. Unlike institutional programs, (acute and sub-acute rehab), we aggressively pursue self-managed home living. To achieve this end, New Start has put in place a healthcare continuum plan that supports moving the SCI or other neuromuscular-affected person to the most independent environment they can live in long-term. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA: Catastrophically injured or disabled Ventilator or non-ventilator dependent Medically stable Mentally alert Potential to achieve independence Approved medical authorization Prior financial authorization from third-party payers Our Independence Training Program requires total commitment from the client. It covers all aspects necessary for return to the community, including: Goal setting and achievement levels Testing of learned skills by written and practical exams Counseling and teaching for family members and friends Reduction of nursing hours to appropriate level and skill Assistance to access needed services Assistance in locating an apartment or other independent environment for long-term living Assistance with interviewing and hiring their own staff by the end of the program A New Start, A New Future When a client achieves their desired level of independence, the next step is the transfer to home under the support of New Start Home Health Care. This ensures the continuity of our specialized nursing care, which is essential to a smooth transition back to home life. Services include (up to) 24-hour nursing and/or attendant care, which is based on the client’s individual needs and resources. The client participates in hiring and training permanent staff until an ideal team is in place. Each case has a manager who ensures follow-through on client independence training. Many clients require assistance with finding and affording accessible housing, specialized equipment, attendant care and more. New Start will assist with appropriate referrals to nonprofit agencies such as the Freedom to Live Foundation. Such agencies provide resources and subsidies related to these areas, as well as information and support for education, transportation, and job training.