21 June 2005

3000 to benefit from boost to Program of Appliances for Disabled People

Three thousand people living with disabilities will receive improved access to appliances helping them live at home or continue working with an additional $3 million to be allocated this year to the Program of Appliances for Disabled People, Health Minister Morris Iemma said today.

“The PADP program is a lifeline for many people who need assistance with the provision of equipment that can help them remain at home or at work and lead more comfortable lives,” Mr Iemma said.

“This equipment is often expensive and the PADP provides the equipment people need at little or no cost. There is growing demand for these appliances including electric and manual wheelchairs, special mattresses, mobility and shower aids.

“The NSW Government is providing an additional $3 million compared to last year’s budget to provide appliances under the PADP as part of this year’s record $10.9 billion health budget.

“This additional funding will bring the program budget to $21.8 million."

Those to benefit from the additional funding include;

• A young woman who has been provided with a wheelchair costing $2980 that enables her to maintain a part time job and continue her studies;

• An elderly Illawarra resident who has been provided with an Electric Patient Lifter allowing him to continue living at home and assist his wife with personal care; and

• A Hunter resident who has received a replacement electric wheelchair allowing her greater mobility both inside and outside her home.

The Minister said $3 million in additional funding could provide:

• 100 additional manual wheelchairs at $3,500; and
• 10 additional electric wheelchairs at $12,000; and
• 50 pressure case mattresses at $3,000; and
• 80 pressure care cushions at $1,000; and
• 1250 continence assistance packages at $1200; and
• 125 Orthotics at $2000; and
• 400 mobility aids at $250; and
• 400 shower aids at $500; and
• 625 maintenance and safety checks at $400.

“The additional resources being devoted to the PADP will help meet the growing demand for this service and help improve the quality of life of people living with disabilities,” Mr Iemma said.

For a range of health information, go online to www.health.nsw.gov.au