Bosnian Doctors for Disabled

"Doctors for Disabled-Austria (DfD-A)“started supporting people with severe disabilities in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) about 15 years ago. In January 2013, the partner organization "Bosnian Doctors for Disabled" (DfD-BiH) was established. The management functions of the Association were filled by associates with severe disabilities. Support for people with severe disabilities throughout the country through DfD-A and DfD-BiH consisted of financial support for survival, sponsorship, cost recovery, the adaptation of housing, equipment and devices for easier everyday life, as well as the introduction of services "personal assistance ( PA) ”. During the implementation of the project, it was concluded that this service is of great importance for people with severe disabilities. "Personal assistants" are hired by a person with a disability to help him/her in different segments of everyday life (hygiene, nutrition, mobility, education, work, going to public institutions, free time) in an individually determined period of time. This service enables people with disabilities a self-determined, quality life and full participation in social flows. Based on the extremely positive individual and social impacts of personal assistance on the one hand and insufficient legislation and public support in BiH on the other hand, personal assistance is an important segment of work for DfD-A and DfD-BiH. Based on our experience and practical knowledge of the situation on the spot, we plan to expand the PA service to more people with disabilities, and through further education to make it professional, especially the development of general assumptions (disability assessment, funding) for implementation at the state level and targeted lobbying. DfD-A and DfD-BiH are NGOs (non-governmental organizations) and finance their activities exclusively through donations and incentives. In order for the personal assistance service to be expanded and legally regulated, additional funds are needed.