Advocates push for better vaccine access for disabled community

During a recent meeting of the Commission on Disabilities, members discussed several pressing issues related to public health and accessibility for individuals with disabilities. A significant topic was the ongoing challenges surrounding vaccine distribution, particularly for those with disabilities. One member expressed frustration over the Department of Public Health's (DPH) focus on age criteria, which complicates access for younger individuals living with disabilities or in high-risk environments. The member emphasized the need for more inclusive policies that consider individual health circumstances rather than solely age.

The meeting also highlighted changes within the commission itself, with the chair announcing a transition to a new role as an access specialist at the Massachusetts Office on Disabilities. Despite this change, the chair reassured attendees that they would continue to advocate for the needs of Revere residents, maintaining availability for concerns outside of regular office hours.

Accessibility improvements were another focal point, with updates on commuter rail stations being made to better serve individuals with disabilities. Members noted that some stations are set to receive new elevators and other enhancements, although there were concerns about the pace of these improvements.

Financial issues were also discussed, particularly regarding budget allocations for disability services. Some proposed items, including wheelchair repair funding, faced delays in committee, and there were reports of unspent funds from previous budgets being vetoed, raising concerns about wastefulness in resource allocation.

Additionally, the commission addressed the topic of medical equipment donations, clarifying that local municipalities do not accept such donations due to storage and liability concerns. Instead, they encouraged residents to reach out to specialized programs that can facilitate these donations.

Overall, the meeting underscored the ongoing challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in accessing healthcare and public services, while also highlighting the commission's commitment to advocacy and improvement in these areas.