Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities (MRDD) Work Programs Consumer Perceptions of Care Survey
In recent years, consumer opinions and consumer rights have become increasingly valued in making appropriate service determinations. A literature review found that most established Consumer Perceptions of Care surveys for MRDD consumers focus on the living environment. Items from several surveys that address the work setting were developed into a brief survey and field-tested. In 2004, an MRDD stakeholder work group sponsored by DOHMH revised, refined and re-field-tested the survey.
The MRDD Consumer Perception of Care Survey includes questions that relate to consumer rights, outcomes, independence, integration, satisfaction, and quality/appropriateness of services. Various probes and background questions are included to help focus the consumer and to facilitate a valid response.
FY08, 16 Work Readiness and 2 Transitional Employment Programs participated in the survey. Programs were contacted by the Office of Mental Hygiene Quality Improvement to schedule survey administration, assess the communication needs of consumers, and determine the special needs of the program. Bureau of MRDD Services program staff administered the consumer survey in-person and individually with each consumer at the program site for approximately 15 minutes. The survey was conducted in a private, quiet space without the presence of program staff, unless it was necessary or requested by the consumer.
Each year, DMH makes the results available to providers after data are analyzed. DMH strongly recommends that participating programs share the survey findings with staff and use the findings to help get areas for improvement.
MR/DD Work PRograms:
FY08 (7/1/07 - 6/30/08)
In FY08, participation in the MR/DD Consumer Perceptions of Care Survey was mandatory for all deficit-funded MR/DD Work Readiness and Transitional Employment programs.
During the April/May 2008 survey period, 18 MRDD work programs administered the survey: 16 work readiness programs, and 2 transitional employment programs.( Click here to see the result)
In all, 310 consumers participated, representing 76% of all adults enrolled in the 18 programs.
