Exploring patterns of service utilization among persons with disabilities in a consumer-directed care program

Area of Science:

• Disability Studies
• Financial Inclusion
• Community Support Services

Background:

• Limited empirical data exists on how financial institutions and home and community-based services impact asset building for individuals with disabilities.
• Understanding these influences is crucial for developing effective financial empowerment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore patterns of banking service utilization among persons with disabilities enrolled in Iowa's home and community-based services waivers program.
• To identify barriers and facilitators to using these financial services.
• To assess the potential of a credit union model for asset building in this population.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative exploration of banking service use within a specific credit union.
• Analysis of enrollment data for persons with disabilities in a home and community-based services waivers program.
• Examination of factors influencing service adoption.

Main Results:

• The majority of program participants do not extensively use the available banking services.
• Despite low utilization, the credit union model demonstrates potential appeal for individuals with disabilities.
• The credit union offers a pathway for saving to purchase goods and services that promote independence.

Conclusions:

• The credit union model, while underutilized, presents a viable framework for supporting asset accumulation among people with disabilities.
• Targeted interventions may be needed to increase engagement with financial services.
• Financial inclusion initiatives are vital for enhancing the independence and productivity of individuals with disabilities.