Two more state centers close in Pennsylvania | PennLive letters

The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), and DHS Secretary Teresa Miller announced plans to close the Polk and White Haven State Centers. These closures represent great opportunities for increased community integration for many people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Pennsylvania.

The Institute on Disabilities at Temple University applauds these closures and looks forward to assisting individuals with intellectual disabilities in transitioning to community living. Our research shows that people who move from state centers to the community are better off in every way we can measure.

Polk and White Haven, two of the four remaining state-run public intermediate care facilities for people with intellectual disabilities in Pennsylvania, will close over the next three years, allowing residents an opportunity to transition into the community.

The former residents will benefit from Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS), available to Pennsylvanians with intellectual disabilities through Medicaid “waiver” programs. These services, which allow people with intellectual disabilities the choice to live in their own home, are cost-effective. Statistically, at least two people can be supported with services in the community, for every one person who is served in an institution.

The Americans with Disabilities Act has sought to end discrimination against people with disabilities, including segregation. The announced closure of Polk and White Haven illustrates the continued trend away from institutionalization and toward a community life.

Celia S. Feinstein, executive director, Institute on Disabilities at Temple University, College of Education, Philadelphia

Jamie Ray-Leonetti, policy director, Institute on Disabilities at Temple University, College of Education, Philadelphia

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