MILWAUKEE (Feb. 6, 2017) – UnitedHealthcare is now accepting proposals from community nonprofits and government agencies aimed at improving health resources and programs for Wisconsin residents with disabilities.
The RFP request was developed following a community brainstorming session that brought together health care providers and other stakeholders from across the state to develop strategies to address health care for the disabled. Initial grants will range from $20,000 to $30,000 each. Funding will be provided to programs and one-time projects for up to 12 months.
Programs and projects must meet at least one of the following priorities:
-Promote equal access to long-term services and support that help people with disabilities:
live independently and earn a living through integrated employment;
communicate and interact with other people with and without disabilities; and
travel independently using accessible transportation options.
-Provide family support, including education on alternatives to traditional care models, family-led future planning, and opportunities for families to learn from each other and share information about systems, resources and advocacy.
-Pilot technology for health (apps, texts, etc.) that helps address social isolation or connection to medical providers.
People with disabilities often face challenges including finding and maintaining employment, securing affordable housing and managing their disability, along with health conditions. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people with disabilities are more likely than people without disabilities to report poorer overall health, less access to quality health care, and higher rates of smoking, physical inactivity, stress and depression. In Wisconsin, there is a gap of more than 40 percent between employment rates of working-age people with and without disabilities, according to the 2014 Annual Disability Status Report.
“We recognize the health challenges facing many people in our state, and welcome the opportunity to partner with community-based organizations and nonprofits to improve the health and independence of Wisconsinites with disabilities,” said Ellen Sexton, CEO, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Wisconsin.
Qualifying organizations, including Wisconsin-based nonprofits, Federally Quality Health Centers (FQHCs), and public/government agencies can receive the full RFP by contacting communitygrants@uhc.com. Applicants that do not meet this qualification may apply in partnership with one of the organizations listed above as the lead organization. Proposals are due March 10, 2017. Awardees will be notified by May 31, 2017.
