NADS Wants YOU to fill out a PUNS form
What is the PUNS?
Illinois’ Prioritization of Urgency of Need for Services” or “PUNS” is a data collection process. The purpose is 1) to help the Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Developmental Disabilities determine the needs of persons with developmental disabilities. The data will allow the DHS to plan appropriately to meet the needs now and in the future for people with disabilities in our State. This is important for the implementation of the Blue Print Redesign for Illinois. Data is need if you want to force a change in our State. 2) Services in Illinois are already being allotted first to those who have signed up for the PUNS.
Who should fill out a PUNS form or have a Puns form filled out on their behalf?
Anyone who lives in Illinois and has a cognitive disability (an IQ less than 70). This is many, if not most, of the people in the Down syndrome community. Even if you feel your family does not need anything at this time you should fill out a PUNS.
How do I fill out a PUNS Form?
Find the contact information for your Independent Service Coordinator (ISC) through the Life Span website? (http://www.illinoislifespan.org)
- First, click on the Search for Advocacy / Service Providers button in the blue box titled Advocacy Services at the bottom of the Illinois Life Span website Home page.
- Under “Search by”, choose the Provider Type pull-down menu. Select Individual Service Coordination (ISC) / PAS Agencies.
- Under County, the last pull-down menu option, select your county.
- Click on the Search button and the name of your ISC Agency will be listed under Results.
- Click on the Agency name and the address, phone, and other important contact information will appear.
- Contact your local Agency to have a ISC assigned to you and to help you fill out a PUNS form
Please call Life Span at 1-800-588-7002 if you encounter any difficulties with this process or these directions. Thank you!
Personal note: I did this for my son who has no immediate needs. It was very easy. Someone came to my home and spent about 45minutes asking questions and discussing r family needs. The lady was knowledgeable and polite. Cathy Morgan (mother of Eddie, age 5 years).