People with Disabilities

Disability and Health Program

The Disability and Health Program (DHP) is funded by a three-year grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).  The goals of the program are to include Floridians of all ages with disabilities in all of the Department of Health’s programs and activities for health promotion, disease prevention, wellness, and disaster preparedness.  The DHP also works with individuals with disabilities, their families, their health care providers, other state agencies, and interested stakeholders to meet its goals.

Disability Determinations

The Division of Disability Determinations is responsible for making the determination of medical eligibility for Florida citizens  who apply for disability benefits under the federal Social Security Administration disability programs (Social Security Disability-Title II and Supplemental Security Income-Title XVI), and under the state Medically Needy program.  It is also responsible for the periodic Continuing Disability Review (CDR) of all SSA disability beneficiaries to determine if they continue to meet medical eligibility criteria.

Information Clearinghouse on Developmental Disabilities

The Information Clearinghouse on Developmental Disabilities provides resources and information on developmental disabilities for pregnant women, health care providers, parents and families.

Special Needs Sheltering

Special Needs Sheltering—If you are medically dependent on electricity, need transportation to evacuate, or assistance to maintain health due to disability, it is important that you research your county's Special Needs Registry. Each county handles the registry of persons with special needs and the provision of services for persons with special needs a little differently.

Vulnerable Populations

Vulnerable Populations—The effects of recent disasters and other incidents have highlighted the need for better identification and planning for individuals most at risk for adverse health outcomes during or following a disaster. At-risk or vulnerable populations are often defined as groups whose unique needs may not be fully integrated into planning for disaster response.