Ventilator Respite Program

Statement of Purpose:

This program is established to provide respite services to caregivers of ventilator dependent patients at home.  This program provides up to 90 hours of service in a twelve-month period beginning 2/1/2011 through 1/31/2012.  Services are paid for by the Chapter however the care is typically provided by local nursing agencies.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Diagnosis of ALS.
• Reside in the Chapter service area.
• Ventilator dependent.

Policy:

This is a program designed to give temporary relief to primary caregivers of ventilator patients who reside at home.  The program also allows a patient residing in a nursing home the opportunity to leave the facility for a short period of time.  The hours can be used to cover a three-day weekend, or can be broken down into smaller increments.  It is preferred that the use of this program is scheduled in advance giving a minimum of two weeks notice.  However, emergency or special circumstances will be considered and services arranged if possible.

Click here to open a printable version of the Ventilator-Dependent Respite Care Application. For more information or for assistance with the application contact Wendy Barnes, LSW at 610-797-2102 or wendy@alsphiladelphia.org