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Albany Med, Center for Disability Services get federal funds to establish integrated health system
Brendan J. Lyons reports for the Times Union that Albany Medical Center and the Center for Disability Services are receiving federal funds to establish an integrated health system that is said to be the first of its kind in the nation. Both institutions have been serving thousands of people with disabilities for more than 80 years in the Capital Region. The $2 million award announced on January 5, by U.S. Sen. Charles E. Schumer, is among $22 million in federal aid being distributed for a series of regional projects. The funds are coming from the $1.7 trillion omnibus spending bill that Congress passed just before Christmas and was signed into law by President Joe Biden on December 29. Schumer said the integrated health services at the Center for Disabilities Services is intended to have "one-stop" treatment services for those who receive services there. "It's the first time that people with severe disabilities can get really good health care ... instead of having to go from one place to another," Schumer said. "It's a one-stop shop. ... It's really the first of its kind in not only the Capital Region but I think in the country. ... It'll have tremendous cost savings because you won't have to make four different stops and see four different doctors." The Center for Disability Services, headquartered on South Manning Boulevard in Albany, runs education and vocational training programs and also operates about 50 group homes in the region. The center's mission is to empower and promote independence among people with disabilities, allowing them to lead healthier lives. Read the full story in the Times Union.