ADA Eligibility Certification Process – What Works for Your Community? v ADA Eligibility Certification Process – What Works for Your Community?

ADA Paratransit Eligibility – Who is Eligible? Per the ADA, individuals with disabilities are eligible for paratransit if their condition prevents them from boarding, riding, or disembarking from public transit vehicles, navigating the transit system, or getting to and from transit stops or stations. The paratransit eligibility process must: Not impose administrative burden or application fees Not make a medical or diagnostic determination Practically determine ability to use fixed route Ensure only those who meet criteria are eligible

Goals of the ADA Eligibility Process Create a person-centered process that considers functional ability Ensure consistent, objective & reliable results Include individuals in the process Determine independent travel abilities Determine which mode(s) of service are appropriate based on the individual’s most limiting condition(s)

Assessment Types Paper- Based In- Person Web- Based RTA went with In-person with paper application. Talk about why: Wanted accurate determinations. The application is an extra step to make sure people are really committed. Also have phone screen as a mobility management tool. In- Person Web- Based Assessment Types

Things to Consider When Deciding Cost Staff Facility What are we really trying to accomplish? Reduced Ridership Accuracy Rider Education Political Climate Does not have to be “all or nothing”

In-Person Assessments Recommended because they: Thoroughly indicate ability Are more accurate than paper-based assessments Reduce error, bias, fraud & abuse Are based on abilities, not diagnoses Are performed by qualified & trained Mobility Assessment Evaluators

Typical In-Person Assessment Results 20% opt-out rate (applicant decides not to participate in assessment process) 5% of applicants moved from paratransit to public transportation 15% 40% 38% 7%

Let’s Talk Facility… Accessibility Transit Access Indoor vs Outdoor Assessment areas Costs

Valley Metro Mobility Center

Valley Metro Mobility Center

Valley Metro Mobility Center

Valley Metro Mobility Center

Valley Metro Mobility Center

Valley Metro Mobility Center

RTA Chicago

RTA Chicago

RTA Chicago

Honolulu

Honolulu

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