A comparison of consumer-directed and agency-directed personal assistance services programmes.
OBJECTIVE
To compare a consumer-directed personal assistance services (PAS) programme with an agency-directed PAS programme.


METHODS
A convenience sample was used for this cross-sectional study with one data collection point. Outcomes were compared for consumer-directed and agency-directed PAS. Hierarchical regressions were also used to determine the predictors of outcomes across PAS programmes. In-home interviews were conducted by a trained data collector from April 2000 to December 2001.


RESULTS
Participants in the consumer-directed programme reported more choices over PAS and satisfaction with PAS. Self-reported outcomes were primarily predicted by the following variables: service arrangement, type of provider, importance of directing PAS, health status, number of personal assistants used in past 12 months, sufficient PAS hours received, and social support.


CONCLUSIONS
Consumer-directed PAS enhances outcomes for many persons with disabilities. Self-reported outcomes are affected by many factors that could be addressed in PAS programme development.
Hagglund
Kristofer
K
School of Health Professions, University of Missouri-Columbia, 65211, USA. hagglundk@health.missouri.edu
Clark
Mary
M
Farmer
Janet
J
Sherman
Ashley
A
D000328:Adult; D003258:Consumer Behavior; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D006233:Persons with Disabilities / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D005260:Female; D006077:Government Agencies; D006304:Health Status; D006699:Home Care Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008484:Medicaid / Q000458:organization & administration; D008875:Middle Aged; D008923:Missouri; D017146:Models, Organizational; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care